John,

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

As the final votes are being counted, it’s now clear: In a year when democracy, freedom, public education, public safety and economic security were on the ballot, voters like you overwhelmingly rejected MAGA extremism and fear.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for volunteering, voting and getting out the vote.

Of course, we are heartbroken about some races, but this election shows a deep well of support for public education and investing in the schools that help kids thrive. Because of our votes, states like California, Massachusetts, New Mexico and even Florida passed ballot measures and funding boosts for public schools. The endorsement of collective bargaining provisions in multiple states and cities comes at a time when unions like ours have strong and enduring approval. And then there are the pro-worker, pro-education governors, senators, representatives, state and local legislators and officials, and school board members we elected.

Our members—educators, healthcare workers, public employees and retirees—campaigned relentlessly for what our kids and communities need. And those efforts made a difference.

Our country remains deeply divided, and we didn’t win all the races we had hoped to win. But this year, so many voters chose problem solvers, not election deniers, to move our country forward.

Your voice mattered and matters. Thank you for all that you do.

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President