HONOLULU (AP) >> The Seafarers International Union of North America has endorsed Gov. Neil Abercrombie in his re-election bid.

Union President Michael Sacco says Abercrombie has long history of supporting the U.S. Merchant Marines. He also says Abercrombie has fought to protect the Jones Act, which was designed to protect the U.S. shipping industry.

The union has about 1,000 members in Hawaii. They work aboard commercial, passenger and military ships in the deck, engine and steward departments.