Dissent in the Ranks: AFT Rushes to Endorse Hillary Clinton — Then Endures Online Backlash
The American Federation for Teachers (AFT) expressed its strong support for Hillary Clinton in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. The AFT applauded Clinton’s leadership qualities, her alignment with their values, and her dedication to fighting for students, families, and communities. They highlighted her past efforts in education funding, workers’ rights, and support for public service workers. Additionally, the AFT emphasized Clinton’s belief in the potential of public education, as she is a product of the public school system herself.
The timing of the endorsement was significant, as it marked the first major union endorsement for any candidate in the 2016 election. This endorsement provided Clinton with crucial momentum, especially considering Senator Bernie Sanders’ rise in popularity. The New York Times acknowledged this coincidence, stating that the timing was advantageous for Clinton, as it coincided with her upcoming major speech on the economy, which aimed to neutralize the criticisms raised by her main competitor.
Beyond the symbolic significance, the AFT endorsement also carried practical implications – the endorsement meant a significant number of votes. The AFT, with its 1.6 million members, pledged to mobilize its members to support Clinton’s campaign. These 1.6 million members would undoubtedly provide a strong voting bloc for Clinton.
However, the endorsement was met with backlash on social media platforms. Angry tweets, outraged Facebook comments, and a Change.org petition criticizing the endorsement emerged. The petition specifically mentioned Clinton’s support for charter schools and her endorsement of linking teacher pay to student test scores as reasons for the protest. Supporters claimed that other candidates, like Bernie Sanders, were more understanding and supportive of teachers’ needs, making them more deserving of the AFT’s endorsement. The petition gained over 3,100 supporters.
In response to the backlash, the AFT released the methodology and results of a membership poll conducted by Hart Research, one of the top firms in the US. This effort aimed to provide transparency and justify the endorsement’s basis.
Although the release of the results reassured some of the AFT’s online following, many remained dissatisfied. Educators took to social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook to express their frustration. They demanded that Clinton clarify her stance on issues such as testing, evaluating teachers based on test scores, charters, and the Common Core. Some criticized her support for Common Core, which they believe hinders the education system. Others expressed disappointment in the AFT’s endorsement and encouraged support for Bernie Sanders instead.
In conclusion, the AFT’s endorsement of Hillary Clinton carried both symbolic and practical implications. While it provided momentum for Clinton’s campaign, it also faced significant backlash, raising questions about her stance on education-related issues and the AFT’s decision-making process.
.@HillaryClinton has the support of @AFTunion, but I am standing up for the children. #educationreform http://t.co/ORra89R4nu
— Jeb Bush (@JebBush) July 11, 2015
Meanwhile, on Change.org, here is an update on the current status of the petition:
Photo: A screenshot from Change.org
The photograph of Hillary Clinton is courtesy of Getty Images.
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