Chellie Pingree, a Democrat running for the 1st Congressional District seat, has won an endorsement from a union representing more than 1,000 Maine carpenters.

John Leavitt, manager of Local 1996 of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters, said the union backs Pingree because she has a history of supporting working families in Maine.

Leavitt cited Pingree's efforts to reduce prescription drug costs; improve corporate accountability; protect union contracts and pension funds; and expand family and medical leave.

"She supports working families trying to make it," said Leavitt in a written statement. "She supports companies that want to grow and create steady, good-paying jobs."

Pingree, of North Haven, is running against Republican Charlie Summers of Scarborough for the seat presently held by U.S. Rep. Tom Allen.