The United Public Workers union yesterday endorsed Maui County Mayor Charmaine Tavares for re-election.

"Mayor Tavares been able to successfully navigate Maui County through these uncertain economic times," UPW state director Dayton Nakanelua said in a news release. "Her ability to look out for our working families and form meaningful partnerships is exactly what's needed. We believe that Mayor Tavares has demonstrated smart, effective leadership, and she has risen up to the many challenges time and time again throughout her first term."

UPW has more than 13,000 civil service workers statewide.