A set of new reports is putting a hard number on something that’s long been debated but rarely quantified in this much detail: how deeply teachers unions are involved in political spending.
According to research from Defending Education, the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) have directed roughly $669 million toward political groups, advocacy organizations, and campaigns since 2015. When state and local affiliates are included, that figure climbs past $1 billion over the last decade.
The reports rely on federal filings and campaign finance records to trace where that money went. It outlines a wide network of recipients, ranging from major political action committees to issue-based nonprofit organizations. Among the largest beneficiaries are groups like the State Engagement Fund, which received more than $60 million, and For Our Future Action Fund, which brought in over $40 million through various channels.
A significant portion of the spending also flowed directly into party-aligned infrastructure. Tens of millions went to committees such as the Senate Majority PAC and House Majority PAC, while more than $85 million was directed to Democratic Party entities at the federal, state, and local levels. These totals do not include additional contributions to individual candidates.
Beyond traditional campaign activity, the reports show funding tied to policy and advocacy efforts. That includes support for organizations involved in climate initiatives, ballot measures opposing school choice, and groups focused on social issues. Some of the named recipients include Color of Change, Indivisible, Planned Parenthood, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, and the National Center for Transgender Equality, among others.
Critics argue the scale and scope of the spending reflect a shift away from core labor priorities. Rhyen Staley, who led the research, described unions as operating with a political focus that extends well beyond wages and working conditions.
Nicole Neily, president of Defending Education, raised questions about how union dues are being used and called for greater transparency so educators better understand where funds are directed.
Supporters of union political activity generally argue that education policy is shaped through legislation, elections, and public advocacy, making political engagement a necessary extension of their role. That perspective holds that issues like funding, curriculum standards, and labor protections are all influenced by the political process.
The timing of the reports adds another layer. They arrive as unions and allied groups prepare for upcoming demonstrations and organizing efforts tied to May Day, events that some activists have framed in explicitly political terms.
