Retired Teachers Lead Rebellion Against Union Boss

It's election time for the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), and things are heating up. A group of teachers—both retired and in service—is trying to boot out the current president, Michael Mulgrew. They're not happy about a plan to switch their health insurance to a privatized system called Medicare Advantage. This group, called ARISE, is made up of three smaller groups, one of which ousted Mulgrew's ally last summer. They think Mulgrew is more interested in saving money than providing good healthcare.

The UFT had to back down from the plan after a court ruled that retirees couldn't be forced to pay more for their insurance. But some teachers still think Mulgrew's change of heart came too late. They're not sure if the union is really on their side. ARISE isn't the only group challenging Mulgrew. Another group, A Better Contract, is also preparing to run. Both groups want to improve working conditions and give teachers more say in what happens in schools. Mulgrew has been in charge since 2009 and has won every election since. But this time, things might be different. The election is in May, and all UFT members will vote.

Actions