Statement by Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers, On Andy Stern’s Decision To Step Down as Head of SEIU

WASHINGTON—Andy Stern has guided and grown the Service Employees International Union through times of great difficulty for working people and labor unions. He is a smart and effective leader who thinks big, takes risks and does not hew to convention.

The labor movement helps workers secure fairness on the job, and a better life for themselves and their families. Andy has helped extend the life-changing benefits of union membership to workers who too often are exploited, underpaid and devalued.

Andy was extraordinarily committed to our shared goal of reforming and expanding access to healthcare. As he steps down from the presidency of the SEIU, we wish him well and look forward to seeing how he directs his considerable energy and abilities in the years to come.