The SEIU Illinois State Council has invested $1.1 million in an independent expenditure group, Brighter Futures Chicago, to influence the upcoming Chicago school board race. This move comes as tensions grow between SEIU and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), once allies but now rivals.
Last week, SEIU Illinois Executive Director Anthony Driver and CTU Vice President Jackson Potter exchanged heated remarks online about the Chicago Public Schools’ (CPS) contentious budget. Brighter Futures Chicago, established in September, is Driver’s new initiative. Both unions recently supported Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign. However, disputes over CPS employees have strained their relationship.
CTU and SEIU are backing different candidates for the presidency of the school board. Jessica Biggs, supported by SEIU, reported a $150,000 contribution from the union. CTU’s candidate, Hilario Dominguez, has received nearly $100,000 in contributions from the union.
District Budget Divides Candidates and Unions
The $10.11 billion CPS budget, passed with an unconfirmed $150 million in state funding, has divided candidates and unions. CPS leaders warn of potential midyear cuts if the funding fails to come through. CTU supports the budget, labeling it a pressure tactic to secure state funding. SEIU criticizes the budget as risky.
The conflict escalated online, with Driver criticizing the budget and Potter defending it. Driver challenged Potter to a public debate, accusing him of harming CPS workers.
The amended budget aims to reverse layoffs for over 1,500 staff members. SEIU’s Dian Palmer calls for a written plan if funding falls through. CTU argues for increased state responsibility, urging CPS to reverse member layoffs.
Upcoming Election and Union Influence
Driver confirmed the $1.1 million transfer will support school board candidates. The entire 21-seat Board of Education is up for election, transitioning from a mayor-appointed to a partly elected body.
SEIU’s Political Action Committee (PAC) reported having $29,000 but has recently received $315,000 more. CTU’s PAC reported $377,000 in cash on hand. Five district-level candidates have mutual support from both union groups. Unions not only contribute financially but also mobilize to increase voter turnout.
CTU represents over 30,000 educators and staff, while SEIU Local 73 supports 13,000 janitors and special education assistants. The clash reflects differing strategies as both unions navigate the evolving landscape of education and labor in Chicago.
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