AFTPA convention delegates voted to endorse Governor Tom Wolf for a second, four-year term. The vote was unanimous.
Nearly four years ago, AFT Pennsylvania was the first union to endorse a relatively unknown candidate for governor, Tom Wolf.
As a candidate, he was outspoken start about his support for Pennsylvania’s public schools, colleges, and universities. And he was firm about his commitment to fighting to raise the minimum wage and protect workers’ rights in Pennsylvania.
"Since we helped elect him in 2014, and in the face of strong opposition from the GOP majorities in the Pennsylvania House and Senate, Tom Wolf managed to obtain historic investments in education – restoring the $1 billion cut to education by his predecessor, former Gov. Corbett," Ted Kirsch said.
Tom Wolf helped enact a fair funding formula, which if he had his way, would be applied to the lion’s share of state funding – instead of only new funding - as the Legislature demanded.
Gov. Wolf fought for and continues to fight to increase access to early childhood education, as well as increasing the number of students enrolled in advance placement courses.
"Governor Wolf vetoed a bill that would have gutted teacher seniority and tenure. He is a fierce opponent of right-to-work (for less) laws and legislation that would prohibit public employees from having their union dues deducted voluntarily from our paychecks," Kirsch said.
The Governor has been outspoken on the devastating impact that the Republican American Health Care Act would have on our most vulnerable students who depend on Medicaid funds to support services to special education students.
"We look forward to continuing to partner with Governor Wolf to strengthen our schools and colleges, protect health care and ensure that Pennsylvania is redistricted fairly after the 2020 Census," Kirsh added.