AFT President Randi Weingarten and AFT-WV President Fred Albert Congratulate Gayle Manchin on Nomination as Federal Co-Chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission

WASHINGTON—American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and AFT-West Virginia President Fred Albert issued the following statement after President Biden announced he plans to nominate Gayle Manchin to lead the Appalachian Regional Commission:

Weingarten said:

“Gayle Manchin is the perfect person for this job—revitalizing rural communities is in her DNA. As one of the visionaries and the chair of our Reconnecting McDowell project, Gayle knows firsthand the importance of investing in rural communities through education, economic development, arts and culture. Her breadth of experience reflects a long-standing, deep commitment to helping the Appalachian region be a place where families can thrive, and I look forward to her success in this role.”

Albert said:

“Having Gayle Manchin in this position will be so very beneficial for students and their families in the Appalachian region and beyond. Manchin has demonstrated true visionary work in McDowell County, W.Va., which is just one example of her commitment to helping families in rural regions.”