AFT President Randi Weingarten and AFT-Wisconsin President Kim Kohlhaas on Wisconsin’s Election of Tony Evers for Governor

WASHINGTON—Statement of American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and AFT-Wisconsin President Kim Kohlhaas on the election of Tony Evers for governor of Wisconsin:

Weingarten said:

“For eight years, working people in Wisconsin have lived through—and fought back against—Scott Walker’s attacks on labor rights, educational opportunity and access to healthcare. Now, by electing Tony Evers, they have a governor whose vision for a thriving Wisconsin will get the state back on track. As state superintendent of public instruction, Evers has worked with—not against—teachers, and has invested in public education. Evers’ plan will restore full funding for public education in Wisconsin, increase investments in technical colleges and the University of Wisconsin System, expand Medicaid and respect workers’ right to improve their lives through a union.

“Walker tried to strip away working people’s ability to have a voice and get ahead, but when the stakes were at their highest, our members joined Wisconsinites in showing up to set a new direction for Wisconsin.”

Kohlhaas said:

“Congratulations to Tony Evers, a true champion for all of Wisconsin. I have worked with Evers as state superintendent for five years. Through this campaign, our members have gotten to see and engage with him in every community in the state. They saw his genuine qualities and got involved. We have been knocking on doors, making calls and mobilizing to put Evers in office. This is a real opportunity to work alongside the governor to build a state where public schools, healthcare and opportunity for all are the top priorities.”