Teachers Under Siege Over Union’s Surprise Endorsement of Socialist Candidate

City educators are rallying to oppose the union’s recent political endorsement, threatening to withdraw financial support following the unexpected backing of socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani for mayor.

Union leaders, led by President Mike Mulgrew, rapidly approved a resolution endorsing Mamdani, with 63% of over 1,000 delegates in favor, while many teachers remained on summer break, unaware of the decision.

The endorsement sparked anger among teachers, who voiced their concerns during a Zoom meeting organized by the United Jewish Teachers and NYC Public Schools Alliance. Critics highlighted Mamdani’s controversial associations, citing his alleged antisemitic and anti-American views.

One teacher, Karen Feldman, remarked, “Mamdani’s record includes troubling ties to antisemitic and anti-American sentiments. This isn’t just politics — it impacts the safety of Jewish staff, heightens ideological tensions in schools, and undermines the union’s mission to support its members.”

The Jewish teachers’ group presented a PowerPoint during the meeting, warning that Mamdani’s anti-Zionist stance and criticisms of Israel could influence classroom discussions and curricula, potentially fostering a biased or politicized portrayal of complex international conflicts. They also expressed concern over Mamdani’s interest in appointing Jamaal Bowman, a socialist and former Bronx principal, as city schools chancellor.

In response, the group urged members to cease all contributions to the union’s political fund, COPE, arguing that union funds should not support divisive candidates. While recommending members not to leave the union immediately, some anticipate a wave of resignations to follow.

Some educators questioned the union’s priorities, with one Bronx-based delegate criticizing the endorsement of someone with opposing beliefs, considering it a betrayal of the union’s support role.

Union contributions are significant, with over 100,000 members donating up to $5 biweekly to COPE, which supports political campaigns and initiatives. Many teachers are now questioning whether paying dues—totaling over $1700 annually—is worthwhile given the union’s recent endorsements.

The union’s backing of Mamdani marks a shift after it declined to endorse a candidate in the June Democratic primary, citing internal divisions. The union claims that endorsement decisions are made through a thorough review process involving elected members from every city school.