California Gubernatorial Candidates Criticized for Picket Line Photo Ops
The leading candidates for California governor are facing backlash after allegedly staging visits to the San Francisco public school strike, which has now reached its fifth day.
Democrats Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell, and Tom Steyer have been called out for their appearances at protests meant to show support for teachers’ unions.
Since Monday, around 50,000 students have been out of class as the San Francisco Education Union has shut down 120 schools, demanding a 9% salary increase.
Numerous teachers gathered outside schools and city halls, many holding signs that read slogans like “We’re on strike for safe and stable schools” and “We’re on strike for well-funded family health care.”
The strike is costing the San Francisco Unified School District between $7 million and $10 million each day, but it hasn’t deterred the Democrats, with Porter expressing pride in the protesters.
“As an educator and public school parent, I know that investing in education secures a better future,” said Porter, who added that all educators deserve fair compensation, promising to increase school funding if elected.
Swalwell stated, “Teachers shouldn’t have to strike for fair pay or health care. I support the San Francisco Federation of Educators and everyone fighting for strong public schools.”
Steyer remarked, “San Francisco teachers are striking for the first time in nearly half a century. I stand with them because California workers require fair wages and benefits.”
However, these candidates faced criticism from Republicans and local residents who highlighted the negative impact on children caused by the ongoing chaos. Republican candidate Steve Hilton suggested that Democrats are siding with unions simply to win favor with teachers. He criticized the current situation, claiming it harms students and points to corruption in the education system.
“These unions and their Democratic allies are depriving opportunities from California’s children, particularly among Latino and Black students,” he said, asserting his intention to confront the unions should he become governor.
Local residents have also voiced opinions on teachers’ salaries, suggesting they are already well-compensated and questioning the need for pay increases. A tech worker named Mr. Spencer said, “Public schools are failing, and now they’re on strike.” He noted the growing trend of families opting for private or charter schools due to declining test scores.
Investor Katherine Sian shared her thoughts online, pointing out that over 3,000 teachers in San Francisco earn above $140,000 for less than nine months of work, while only 54% of students reach reading and math proficiency.
Others echoed this sentiment, questioning the benefits teachers receive in comparison to the private sector and urging candidates to support students and parents instead.
As the strike continues, working parents are struggling to find care for their children. Teachers are advocating for a 9% pay raise over two years, despite the district facing a $100 million deficit and being under state financial supervision.
