NEA Statement on Senator Bernie Sanders Suspending His Presidential Campaign

WASHINGTON - National Education Association President Lily Eskelsen García released the following statement reacting to Senator Bernie Sanders announcing that he is suspending his presidential campaign:

“Bernie Sanders has run an inspiring campaign, helping refocus the conversation in this country around lifting up working people as he advocated for stronger public schools for students and fair pay for educators. The passion and energy Senator Sanders brought to the campaign encouraged so many people to get involved in this process. And we look forward to continue working with Senator Sanders as he returns to the Senate to advocate for a better future for all of our students, families, and neighbors.

“Now, given all that is at stake in this election, it is time for everyone to come together in support of Joe Biden, the tireless advocate for public education and partner that students and educators need in the White House. Vice President Biden understands that as a nation we have a moral responsibility to provide a great neighborhood public school for every student in every ZIP code. He is committed to attracting and retaining the best educators by paying them as the professionals that they are, as well as increasing funding for support staff and paraprofessionals. Biden will appoint a Secretary of Education who comes from a public school classroom and believes that educators must have a seat at the table when crafting education policy. And in this especially trying time, Biden has the experience and empathy needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuild the economy by lifting up working people and middle class families. That is why NEA’s 3 million members are determined to use our voice to propel Joe Biden to the White House.”