Hello,

This election, voters turned out in record numbers to back leaders who put people first—the leaders who will fight to tackle the affordability crisis facing our country, stand up for working people and create opportunities for all.

We showed up, and we voted. And those votes made a difference. Thank you to all who voted in their state and local elections this year.

In race after race, Americans rejected extremism and abuses of power. They voted for candidates focused on making life better—lowering costs, investing in public education, expanding opportunity, and restoring trust in government that works for the people, not for the powerful few. Whether a progressive in New York City, a liberal in New Jersey or a moderate in Virginia, these candidates all had something in common: a relentless focus on what Americans need—opportunity, dignity, democracy and a life they can afford.

Here are just a few of the victories we helped make possible:

• New Jersey and Virginia elected Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger as their governors, candidates focused on supporting public schools and lowering the cost of living.

• New York City elected Zohran Mamdani as mayor, who ran a campaign focused on a safer and more affordable city for families.

• California overwhelmingly voted YES on Proposition 50, to ensure fair representation for all.

• Pennsylvania voters retained their state Supreme Court judges to ensure justice for all.

• Maine voters rejected Question 1 and its direct attack on voting rights, but voted yes on Question 2 to make their communities safer and reduce gun violence.

• Colorado voters approved a tax increase to fund free school meals, so no student is forced to learn on an empty stomach.

On top of this, voters in Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and other states supported referendums to invest in public education. In Colorado, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Texas and others, voters elected school board members who will fight for safe, welcoming and fully resourced public schools. For our full summary on Election 2025, click here.

We still have a lot of work to do: building community, fighting for working families, defending our democracy and demanding a real voice in it. We will continue fighting in the courts and in the court of public opinion, lobbying Congress and using commerce to advance our goals. And we will continue standing up for each other and our communities. That’s how we build an even bigger tent, not only to help these newly elected leaders govern but also to win in 2026 and secure the promise of America.

But today, I want to thank you for all you do. Thank you for voting for affordability, for opportunity and for a future where all of us can thrive.

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President

P.S. Big news! We're launching a brand-new weekly video series to keep you in the loop on what's happening with the AFT.

In my first-ever report, I break down the big election wins for pro-public education, pro-worker candidates across the country; I discuss how the AFT is demanding action on healthcare costs, food assistance and student debt during the government shutdown; and explain the legal victory that will deliver major student debt relief for borrowers. Watch and share the weekly update here.