Two MEA members from different political backgrounds share why member involvement matters, what they look for in candidates, and how finding common ground helps strengthen public education.
Every election cycle, MEA members play a key role in reviewing candidates and determining who earns the Association’s endorsement. Through candidate questionnaires, voting records, and member discussions, the process helps ensure educators have a voice in the issues that affect public schools and working people.
We spoke with Jason Curry and Valerie Pinkham about their experiences participating in the process. Despite coming from different political backgrounds, both believe educators have an important role to play in MEA’s endorsement process. They shared why member participation matters, what they look for in candidates, and how working together helps strengthen public education.
Why is it important to have a variety of voices involved in the endorsement process?
Valerie: I am proud of my active involvement in the MEA, even though I belong to a political party that represents a minority within the organization. It is not always easy. I sometimes hesitate to speak up—not because anyone has ever been unkind, but because assumptions can be made simply because of the “R” next to my name. I feel it is important to attend the Screening and Endorsement sessions. To represent my political party and ensure that all parties are part of the process.
Jason: MEA members who are willing to dedicate the time and effort meet to review candidate questionnaires and voting records. I’m a Democrat and that does shape my decision-making, but I don’t want a monopoly of Democrats getting our endorsement. I would much rather both parties were well informed about our issues and wanted to compete for our support.
What do you look for in a candidate to earn MEA’s endorsement?
Valerie: On a personal level, I vote for candidates whose priorities align with mine. As a lifelong educator, the education of children is paramount to me and what drew me to becoming a member of MEA in the first place. I also strongly believe unions protect the rights of working people, and I will support candidates who champion those values, regardless of party affiliation.
Jason: I will support any candidate who is pro-labor, pro-public education, and pro-human rights. In the end, I don’t care what letter is next to their name on the ballot. I care that they support the issues that matter to MEA members, will support the MEA’s position, and help pass legislation that strengthens our schools and communities.
What do you hope to see in the future with MEA’s endorsements?
Valerie: Right now, we do not have a lot of Republicans applying for endorsements. I would like to encourage more Republican candidates to participate and seek our endorsement. I am eager to offer my support to any candidate who stands up for public education and is union friendly.
Jason: I would really love to see more Republican candidates fill out the MEA endorsement questionnaire and compete for our support. I want a future where it doesn’t matter which party controls the House or Senate or Governor’s Office because all Maine leaders support public schools, workers, and families. Members in Republican-led districts can help by talking with their representatives and senators and show that educator support can be earned if candidates will support the workers, the public schools, and human rights.
What have you learned from working alongside members with different perspectives?
Valerie: Sometimes I am nervous to be vocal about being a Republican in the MEA, but this work has introduced me to some of the kindest, funniest, and most wonderful people I know. Don’t hesitate to reach out to someone with whom you may not politically agree—you might be surprised by how much common ground you share.
Jason: If you don’t like where we are, change where we are. Union membership is growing. People are realizing that and standing together in solidarity. When educators organize, participate, and speak with a collective voice, we can make a difference.
What should members know about MEA Political Action Committee (MEA-PAC)?
Valerie: It’s important to understand that MEA PAC is not funded through member dues. It relies entirely on voluntary contributions. I understand why members may refrain from donating if candidates from their party are rarely endorsed. However, my solution is to encourage more candidates to complete the application process. Having seen firsthand, I can attest that the endorsement process is remarkably thorough.
Jason: MEA’s contributions to endorsed candidates do not come from member dues dollars. Instead, they come from the MEA PAC, a voluntary fund supported by members. I choose to give to MEA PAC because I want to see pro-labor and pro-public education candidates get into office who will protect workers, our families and students, and the whole public education system.
What is your advice to MEA members looking to get more involved?
Valerie: Based on my experience, my advice is to get involved. Support the issues that matter to you at a comfort level of your choosing. Attend a Screening and Endorsement meeting, get to know the people who are involved, especially in local government.
Jason: Band together, flex your collective muscles, and create power where you once felt powerless. You can’t become more politically powerful without working alongside your union siblings, developing goals and strategies, and advocating together with school boards, legislators, and other elected officials.
What is MEA PAC? Why is it important?
MEA PAC uses voluntary contributions from members to help push for education policies that support members, ensuring that our voice, values, and priorities are heard and respected both in the workplace and at the State House.
visit: maineea.org/mea-fund
