Statement by the American Federation of Teachers’ Committee
Investigating the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) Runoff Election

Washington, D.C. — Late last night, when the committee adjourned its fact-finding hearing, it had heard more than 11 hours of testimony concerning the disputed CTU runoff election. This included extensive evidence presented by attorneys for the two candidates involved in that election, Deborah Lynch and Marilyn Stewart, testimony by the candidates themselves, and testimony by numerous additional witnesses for both parties. The committee also received a number of exhibits from the parties and heard from officials representing the American Arbitration Association, which certified the election on June 11 and 14.

The purpose of this committee, pursuant to the AFT constitution and the AFT Executive Council resolution, is to conduct a thorough fact-finding investigation of the CTU runoff election. Having completed the hearing portion, we will work diligently to make recommendations to the Executive Council to help it resolve the dispute quickly and comprehensively and allow the CTU to turn its full strength and expertise to providing a quality education to the students of Chicago’s public schools.

We expect to receive final briefs from the parties by the close of business on Monday. Our goal is to provide within the next 10 days a report to the Executive Council with our conclusions and recommendations. Knowing the priority the Council has placed on this matter, we are confident it will act expeditiously to issue a final decision and order that will comprehensively resolve all matters in this case.

# # # #