Teachers Head Blasts Senate For Blocking Jobs Bill

Randi Weingarten, President of American Federation of Teachers, blasted the 50 senators who voted against the Teachers and First Responders Back to Work Act Thursday evening, charging that they are more concerned about protecting the wealthiest Americans from a half-cent-per-dollar tax increase than protecting the future and safety of Americans.

“It’s time to set aside the political gamesmanship and do what is right for our students, for the safety of our communities, and for our country,” Weingarten said in a statement Friday.

The bill, which was initially a provision in the President’s jobs package, was aimed at helping states rehire teachers and first responders.

Weingarten added that by opposing the measure, Senators are clearly displaying that they are out of touch with the American people by ultimately putting American communities at risk.