ALBERT LEA — DFL candidates for state offices continued to criticize Mayo Clinic Health System Friday for not allowing workers who participated in a one-day strike Tuesday to return to work before Christmas.

The comments Friday by 1st District Congressman Tim Walz and candidate for state auditor Jon Tollefson came on the fourth day workers represented by Service Employees International Union picketed on a public sidewalk outside the hospital. Walz is a candidate for Minnesota governor.

“… I think the idea of not allowing them back in over Christmas simply sends a message — especially in this community — that is really unacceptable,” Walz said.

The hospital system signed the one-week contract with replacement workers and Walz believed the hospital system could let the workers return at any time.

At times, Walz marched with the picketers and stood near the street motioning at cars to signal their support for the workers.

During a speech to the Mayo employees, Walz said he was thankful workers decided to picket outside the hospital.

The SEIU Healthcare Minnesota represents about 80 members who work as certified nursing assistants, housekeepers, sterile processing and utilities and materials management workers in Albert Lea.

The strike comes as conflict remains between SEIU and Mayo Clinic after the union objected to a clause that said union benefits could change in accordance with a change in benefits

In an email Friday, Mayo Clinic spokeswoman Ginger Plumbo took issue with statements made by prospective legislators in support of the workers.

“While it’s understandable to see emotions run high from union leaders, it is unfortunate to hear the same rhetoric from elected officials and candidates, and especially disappointing to see this one-sided approach from our own congressman,” she said.

“What we want Minnesotans to remember — and what we have told Congressman Walz — is that our primary focus is to reliably provide high-quality, uninterrupted care for our patients and their families.”

Plumbo said the union called the strike Tuesday despite knowing Mayo needed to hire replacement personnel for at least one week to provide uninterrupted care to the area.