The United Steelworkers Local 2251 in Sault Ste. Marie, which represents workers at the Algoma steel plant, is departing from traditional support of the Ontario New Democratic Party.

Union President Mike Da Prat says the union has voted to support Progressive Conservative candidate Ross Romano, the incumbent MPP in Sault Ste. Marie.

“I think their position on the cap and trade, and a few other issues, may have resonated with the workers." said Da Prat.

He says the union has been supporting the local Ontario NDP candidate every election since the early 1960's.