A federation comprising of 56 unions, representing more than 12 million members, have voted to endorse Hillary Clinton for president.

The Support for Clinton -- Explained

The AFL-CIO's General Board -- which comprises of specific members ranging from its Executive Council; affiliated, national, and international union members; and other representatives from allied groups -- voted in favor of endorsing Clinton following a "comprehensive, democratic process" that started a year ago to ensure the interests of its members were represented.

With the endorsement, the AFL-CIO announced it will launch a ground campaign to ensure Clinton's election to the White House.

"Hillary Clinton is a proven leader who shares our values," said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka in a statement released on late Thursday morning. "Throughout the campaign, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to the issues that matter to working people, and our members have taken notice. The activism of working people has already been a major force in this election and is now poised to elect Hillary Clinton and move America forward."

Trumka added that the ground campaign will be "sophisticated" and "targeted" and also took a shot at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, saying the businessman poses "dire consequences" for America's working families.

Recognizing Sanders' Efforts

Trumka did acknowledge fellow Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders' campaign and how the independent Vermont senator did manage to promote issues that are critical to the labor movement.

"Senator Bernie Sanders has brought an important voice to this election, and has elevated critical issues and strengthened the foundation of our movement. His impact on American politics cannot be overstated," the AFL-CIO president said.

But the federation's support will be for Clinton. Trumka added that the former secretary of state has proven herself to a champion of the labor movement, and the AFL-CIO "will be the driving force to her president of the United States."

The AFL-CIO's endorsement coincidentally comes on the one-year anniversary since Trump announced his presidential bid.

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