AFT President Responds to Linda McMahon's Education Secretary Confirmation

WASHINGTON—The Senate has confirmed Linda McMahon as the U.S. Secretary of Education, prompting a response from Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Weingarten expressed concerns regarding Secretary McMahon's position on channeling public funds towards private school vouchers. "We know we will disagree with Secretary McMahon on a host of issues, including her stance on using public funds for private school vouchers," she stated. Additionally, there is apprehension about President Donald Trump's potential plans for the Department of Education and the nation's public schools.

Despite these concerns, Weingarten conveyed a willingness to collaborate on initiatives aimed at enhancing public education, particularly in the areas of high school career and technical education and workforce development. "We want to work with her on strengthening public schools and ramping up high school career and technical education and workforce development efforts across the nation," Weingarten added.

Furthermore, Weingarten emphasized the importance of respecting educators who contribute significantly to the education system. "We ask that she respect the hardworking and amazing educators of this country who are helping young people every day," she remarked.

The AFT President extended an invitation to work together, underscoring the shared goal of creating thriving public schools that are attractive to parents, educators, and students alike. "We are extending our hand to work together to ensure that all our public schools are places where parents want to send their kids, educators want to work and kids thrive. That’s our job, and we hope she sees it as her job, too," Weingarten concluded.

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The AFT represents 1.8 million members, including teachers from pre-K through 12th grade, paraprofessionals, higher education faculty, government employees, nurses, healthcare workers, and early childhood educators.