The Hawaii Firefighters Association has announced it supports Gov. Neil Abercrombie in his bid for re-election.

The union’s President Bobby Lee said in a statement Tuesday that Abercrombie has stood with firefighters for more than 50 years.

The union says Abercrombie has consistently supported them on labor issues and concerns about fire and public safety. They also say he built a strong foundation to advance preschool for Hawaii’s children and to expand benefits and services for seniors. The union credits Abercrombie with improving the state’s economy and infrastructure since he took office in 2010.

Abercrombie, a Democrat is running for a second term. He faces a primary challenge from state Sen. David Ige.

The Hawaii Firefighters Association represents 3,100 active and retired firefighters.

Abercrombie says he’s grateful for the support.