Weingarten: Trump’s Re-election a Threat

In a fervent address at the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) convention, union president Randi Weingarten transformed the event into a political rally, expressing grave concerns about the potential return of fascism and violence in America under former President Donald Trump. Weingarten, known for her progressive stance, invoked lyrics from the musical "Suffs," produced by Hillary Clinton, emphasizing that while "progress is possible, it is not guaranteed." She underscored the significance of the upcoming November elections, suggesting that the outcome could shape the nation's future. Weingarten's speech was marked by passionate calls for various freedoms, including reproductive rights and the right to unionize. She urged attendees to envision a future where families can make their own choices, stating, "The freedom to teach and the freedom to join a union!" Her rhetoric intensified as she expressed hope that Trump's recent health scare might lead to a change in his character, although she ultimately labeled him as "selfish and evil," prompting a chorus of dissent from the audience. The speech also included sharp critiques of prominent figures associated with the Trump administration, such as former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and activist Chris Rufo, who has been a vocal opponent of Critical Race Theory. Rufo, who was specifically mentioned in Weingarten's remarks, responded to her comments on social media, describing the situation as "awesome," highlighting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the event.