Fact Check: Randi Weingarten, the head of the American Federation of Teachers, resigned from her position in the Democratic National Committee on June 5, 2023, citing a lack of alignment with the leadership of Chairman Ken Martin.

Fact Check: Randi Weingarten Resigned from DNC Position

What We Know

On June 5, 2023, Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), resigned from her position in the Democratic National Committee (DNC). In her resignation letter, Weingarten expressed that she felt "out of step" with the leadership being established by DNC Chair Ken Martin. She indicated that she did not want to continue questioning the party's efforts to engage broader communities (New York Times, Washington Post).

Weingarten's departure, along with that of Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, marked a significant moment of dissent within the DNC, particularly as both leaders had supported a rival candidate, Ben Wikler, in the chairmanship race (Reuters, Newsweek).

Analysis

The claim that Randi Weingarten resigned from her DNC position on June 5, 2023, is supported by multiple reputable sources. In her resignation letter, Weingarten clearly articulated her concerns about the DNC's direction under Ken Martin's leadership, stating, "While I am proud to be a Democrat, I appear to be out of step with the leadership you are forging" (Politico). This sentiment was echoed by other union leaders, indicating a broader discontent with the current leadership's approach to coalition-building within the party (The Hill).

The sources reporting on this event, including the New York Times and Washington Post, are known for their journalistic integrity and thorough reporting. They provide detailed accounts of the internal dynamics at the DNC and the implications of Weingarten's resignation, which adds credibility to the claim.

However, it is important to note that while Weingarten's resignation reflects her personal views and the sentiments of some within the party, it does not necessarily indicate a widespread exodus from the DNC. The context of her resignation, including her support for a rival candidate, suggests that it is part of a larger narrative of internal party conflict rather than a singular event.

Conclusion

The claim that Randi Weingarten resigned from her position in the Democratic National Committee on June 5, 2023, citing a lack of alignment with the leadership of Chairman Ken Martin, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms her resignation and the reasons she provided in her letter.

Sources

1. Randi Weingarten Quits D.N.C. Post in Dispute With Chairman
2. Two top union leaders leave DNC, dealing blow to chair ...
3. Teachers union head quits Democratic Party post in ...
4. DNC Faces Fresh Blow as 23-Year Veteran Resigns Amid ...
5. Teachers union President Randi Weingarten resigns from DNC
6. Teachers union head Randi Weingarten resigns from DNC
7. Randi Weingarten leaves DNC, citing conflict with chair Ken Martin
8. Teachers Union Head Quits Democratic Party Post Over Leadership Concerns