Teachers’ Union and Politics

Are you a public school teacher in Colorado? Do you know a friend or family member who is? Check out the latest from the Independence Institute. The Institute sent out an electronic message to 40,000 teachers last night. We’ve been told KOA’s Mike Rosen will read from it during his morning show. Here’s a nugget from the letter about the Colorado Education Association (CEA) – the state’s largest teachers’ union – and its political contributions.

From January through November 2004, political and small donor committees operated by CEA and CEA-affiliated local associations reported combined spending to political parties and candidates:
– 94% to the Democrat Party and its candidates
– 5.4% to the Republican Party and its candidates
– Less than 1% to other candidates

For a more detailed breakdown of Colorado teachers’ union contributions through their political and small donor committees, check out this detailed chart. Please note… this is based entirely on reports filed with the Colorado Secretary of State and includes only contributions to state and local political campaigns and other activities. Some might have a hunch that there’s a lot more hiding out there… if you know how to dig it up, let me know.

So what’s the big deal? I’m sure 95% of CEA members typically vote Democrat, right? Not likely. But they all have to pay for the political contributions unless they ask for their money back.

If you are a CEA member, the deadline to request a $24 refund is DECEMBER 15. You must request the refund in writing by sending a letter including name, Social Security Number, and Local Association to:
Colorado Education Association
1500 Grant Street
Denver, CO 80203

Your local association may have an additional political deduction.

Please also send teachers to the Institute’s teacher resource page.