Fact Check: Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders Endorsed Ben Wikler
What We Know
The claim that Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders endorsed Ben Wikler, who was Ken Martin's top opponent for the DNC chairmanship, is supported by recent reports. Both Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers, and Saunders, the president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, publicly expressed their support for Wikler during the chairmanship race. Following the election, which resulted in Ken Martin becoming the chair, both leaders decided to resign from their positions within the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as a sign of protest against Martin's leadership and direction of the party (New York Times, Washington Post).
In their resignation letters, both Weingarten and Saunders articulated their concerns about the DNC's failure to expand its coalition and engage more communities, which they believed was necessary for the party's future (CNN, KTSA). Their actions and statements indicate a clear alignment with Wikler's vision over that of Martin.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim comes from multiple reputable sources that detail the resignations of Weingarten and Saunders from the DNC and their prior support for Ben Wikler. The New York Times and the Washington Post, both of which are established news organizations, reported on the internal discord within the DNC and the reasons behind the resignations of these influential labor leaders. Their reports highlight that both Weingarten and Saunders had previously endorsed Wikler, which aligns with the claim being fact-checked.
While the sources are credible, it is important to note that the context of their endorsements and subsequent resignations reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the DNC's direction under Martin's leadership. This dissatisfaction may color their endorsements as part of a strategic move rather than purely ideological support for Wikler. However, the consistency across multiple reports reinforces the reliability of the claim that they endorsed him (CNN, KTSA).
Conclusion
The claim that Randi Weingarten and Lee Saunders endorsed Ben Wikler, who was Ken Martin's top opponent for the DNC chairmanship, is True. Both leaders' resignations from the DNC, coupled with their public support for Wikler during the chairmanship race, substantiate this claim. Their actions reflect a significant dissent within the party regarding its leadership and strategic direction.
