Teacher Unions Fund Left-Wing Groups
A recent report from a Conservative watchdog group reveals that the two major teacher unions in the U.S. have spent a staggering $43.5 million on left-leaning organizations since 2022.
This finding comes from a release by a national nonprofit focused on defending education. The report outlines the financial contributions made by the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers, further corroborated by disclosures to the Department of Labor.
Ed’s researcher, Rhyen Staley, expressed concern, stating, “It is clear that teacher union priorities are moving forward with issues of far-left politics and radical social justice instead of focusing on children’s education. This feels like a slap in the face to families and teachers who want to help students improve their reading and math skills. Now is the time for Congress to halt the improper redistribution of public funds to advance left-wing identity politics.”
Over the course of this period, the union allocated $1.5 million to various left-wing and dark money groups, including the Tides Network and the Future Forward group.
The report also shows that the unions supported left-leaning candidates in recent elections, channeling significant funds into the Democratic Governors Association and other political action committees. They’ve even contributed nearly $1 million to left-leaning think tanks and their affiliated 501(c)(4) entities.
Public sector union expert Aaron Withe highlighted that the NEA allocated 38% of its budget toward funding left-wing initiatives, while only 10% was set aside for “special activities.” He suggested that with declining membership, it would seem logical for the unions to offer more value to their members, rather than focusing heavily on radical agendas, which he believes include defending controversial stances like transgender participation in women’s sports.
Withe described the situation as merely “the tip of the iceberg,” indicating that numerous local and state teacher unions are likely backing similar causes. As of now, neither union has responded to requests for comments on the matter.
