John Edwards gains unions' backing

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 3 (UPI) -- The United Steelworkers union and the United Mine Workers of America have announced their support for Democratic U.S. presidential candidate John Edwards.

The former North Carolina senator was set to accept the endorsements Monday in Pittsburgh, Pa., the home of the steelworkers' international headquarters, KDKA-AM Pittsburgh reported Monday.

Edwards called the unions some of the country's hardest-working, bravest, most courageous workers, adding that their work helps build a stronger America.

Edwards is also backed by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, while the United Transportation Union and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers are endorsing rival Democrat Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York.

The International Association of Fire Fighters is backing Sen. Chris Dodd of Connecticut.