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Member of largest teachers union in US claims org is ‘no longer focused on children,’ only ‘political power’
Michael Greer, a retired special education teacher and former union chapter president, says the National Education Association (NEA) and California Teachers Association (CTA) have shifted their focus from improving teaching to building political influence. His criticism comes as reports document substantial union spending on political activity, renewing debate over what teachers’ unions prioritise and how that relates to student achievement.
An analysis by the North American Values Institute says the NEA spent at least $547 million on political activity and advocacy from 2016 to 2025, while the American Federation of Teachers reported $383.2 million in political activity and lobbying over the same period. Parents Defending Education separately estimates that national unions have directed more than $660 million to left-wing political groups and causes since 2015, rising above $1 billion when state and local affiliates are included. The article also notes that around three in 10 US students are proficient in maths and reading; the supplied text ends mid-sentence while describing the CTA’s political relationships.
In short
- Former union member says teaching support has given way to political activity.
- NEA reported at least $547 million in political activity and advocacy.
- Student proficiency in maths and reading remains around three in 10.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Teachers’ unions can argue that political advocacy is part of representing educators and improving the conditions in which children learn. Campaigning on school funding, class sizes, staffing and education policy may advance their members’ interests while also supporting students, and political spending alone does not show that unions have abandoned classroom priorities.
The case against
Critics can argue that unions risk neglecting their core educational mission when large sums go to political activity, especially amid weak student achievement. They may see this spending as evidence that leadership is prioritising influence and members’ interests over children, and argue that unions should show more clearly how their advocacy improves teaching and learning.
Explained simply
The National Education Association is the largest teachers’ union in the United States. It represents educators and campaigns on issues affecting schools, while state and local unions, including the California Teachers Association, operate as affiliates. The American Federation of Teachers is another large national teachers’ union.
Teachers’ unions negotiate over matters such as pay and working conditions, and they also take part in politics and lobbying. Michael Greer, a retired special education teacher and former union chapter president, argues that the NEA and CTA now give too much attention to political influence. Reports cited in the debate estimate substantial political spending by national unions and their affiliates.
The discussion also touches on student achievement: the article says around three in 10 US pupils are proficient in maths and reading. How unions divide their attention and resources between representing educators, political activity and improving education is a subject of public debate.