Chicago – Actors' Equity Association's National Council has voted to endorse Betty McCollum's reelection campaign for the United States House of Representatives (MN4), on behalf of more than 51,000 actors and stage managers working in live entertainment.
"Betty McCollum serves constituents in and around the Twin Cities, one of the most vibrant theatre markets in the country, and she knows the value the arts industry provides," said Al Vincent Jr., executive director of Actors' Equity Association. "As a member of the House's Interior Committee, she helps oversee public arts funding, and we are so excited to partner with her as she continues to advocate for policies that expand job opportunities for arts workers."
Rep. Betty McCollum said:
"I'm honored to receive the support of Actors' Equity Association in my re-election campaign in recognition of my support for safe, high-quality working conditions, good-paying jobs with strong benefits, and the right to collectively bargain for their members. As an Interior-Environment appropriator, I will continue working to protect and strengthen federal funding for the arts community so Actors' Equity Association members can continue to bring thrilling and captivating entertainment to audiences across the country to enjoy."
Equity's public policy priorities include defending and protecting the right to collectively bargain, stronger federal and state arts funding, a prevailing wage in the arts, a strong minimum wage, universal federal health care, tax fairness , racial justice, gun violence prevention and LGBTQ non-discrimination protections.
The move marks Equity's first endorsement for a political candidate in the state of Minnesota. Equity's ongoing list of 2026 candidate endorsements can be found here.
ACTORS' EQUITY ASSOCIATION, founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers. Equity endeavors to advance the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits (health and pension included). Member: AFL-CIO, FIA. www.actorsequity.org #EquityWorks
September 23, 2026
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