Public Union Democracy

The Pretense of Democratic Unions

  • February 22, 2016

Control over the largest local teachers union in Pennsylvania is up for grabs. The Caucus of Working Educators (WE) is challenging the leadership of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers…

Media

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Education

Taxpayer-Funded Union Politics in Philadelphia

  • James Paul
  • February 18, 2016

It's no secret that the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) plucks teachers out of the classroom to work as full-time union operatives. These individuals are known as ghost teachers—and their…

Media

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Education

State Supremes Strike Down Charter Caps

  • James Paul
  • February 17, 2016

Pennsylvania’s legislature granted extraordinary powers to Philadelphia’s School Reform Commission (SRC) when they created the body in 2001. Tasked with shoring up the district’s finances, the SRC was authorized to suspend…

Media

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Education

Philly Union Priorities: Politics over Teachers

  • James Paul
  • November 17, 2015

How would you feel if your employer took funds meant for your health insurance and spent them on partisan politics? Sadly, this is a reality for thousands of teachers in…

Media

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Education

Our Undemocratic Teachers’ Unions

  • James Paul
  • March 30, 2015

Is American democracy under assault? That’s a question often asked when businesses exert political influence, unelected bureaucrats misuse power, or reporters engage in slanted storytelling. It’s time to add public-school…

Commentary

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Government Accountability

PA Union Campaign Contributions Exceed $10 Million

  • Nathan Benefield
  • February 25, 2015

Pennsylvania government unions gave more than $10.5 million to candidates last election cycle. We updated our analysis of union political spending using the latest reports filed with the PA…

Media

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Government Accountability

Political Spending by Government Unions During the 2014 Election

  • February 11, 2015

The evidence is overwhelming: Unions use members' dues and taxpayer resources to push their political agenda. By passing paycheck protection, Pennsylvania can move toward leveling the political playing field, making…

Memo

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Education

After 50 years of Union Control, Philly Schools Still Failing

  • James Paul
  • January 29, 2015

Academic failure, school violence, and financial mismanagement have been the dubious hallmarks of the School District of Philadelphia for decades. In that time, there has been one constant actor fighting…

Commentary

Read More: After 50 years of Union Control, Philly Schools Still Failing