LEWISTON, MAINE—Members of the Maine Education Association (MEA), the state’s largest labor union, announced their endorsement of Matt Dunlap for Congress in the open race for Maine’s Second Congressional District.
During MEA’s endorsement process, Dunlap committed to fully funding public education, including advocating for full federal funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and increased federal support for programs that attract more people to the teaching profession.
He also pledged to listen to educators when making decisions that affect Maine’s students and schools. As a graduate of Maine’s public schools, including the University of Maine, Dunlap understands the important role public education plays in creating opportunities and strengthening our democracy.
“MEA members are proud to endorse Matt Dunlap for Congress because we know we can trust him to listen to educators and students,” said MEA President Jesse Hargrove. “Throughout his career in public service, Matt has proven himself to be a strong advocate for working people, including educators. We look forward to working with Matt to advance policies that strengthen our public schools, create opportunities for students, support all Mainers, and help address the challenges facing our communities.”
This stands in stark contrast to his opponent, former Governor Paul LePage, who failed to listen to educators and value their expertise while serving as governor. His administration repeatedly attempted to cut public education funding and slashed pension benefits for current and future retired teachers and ed techs.
“I’m proud to have the endorsement of the Maine Education Association,” said Matt Dunlap. “As a product of Maine’s public schools, a former MEA member, and the dad of an educator, I know our schools are the bedrock of our state — and I’ll always fight to give our teachers, educators, and students the resources they’ve been promised. Washington can always find money for tax cuts for the wealthy; it’s time we invested in our kids.”
