Protecting failing schools and supporting teachers unions is not a winnable strategy, CEO warns

Democrats’ strong ties to teachers unions and their opposition to school choice initiatives are viewed as a losing political strategy by Tommy Schultz, CEO of the American Federation for Children. Schultz argues that teachers unions’ agenda of maintaining control over public schools and blocking alternatives is not resonating with voters who are increasingly seeking educational options. Despite potential headwinds from recent Democratic wins, Schultz remains confident that a pro-school choice message will continue to drive electoral success.

• Tommy Schultz, CEO of the American Federation for Children, believes Democrats’ reliance on teachers unions and opposition to school choice is a losing political strategy.
• Teachers unions oppose school choice initiatives like vouchers and education savings accounts, arguing they divert funds from public schools.
• The NEA and AFT are major financial contributors to Democratic campaigns.
• Tensions between unions and parents have increased due to concerns over pandemic-related learning loss.
• Republicans have campaigned heavily on school choice, enacting measures for private or alternative educational settings.
• Recent Democratic wins in key state races, like in Texas, could create challenges for the school choice movement.
• Schultz is confident that parental demand for school choice will continue to influence political outcomes.