Prominent Commentator Calls for Disbandment of Teachers' Unions, Igniting Debate on Their Role in U.S. Education

Steve Faktor, a notable public commentator, has sparked controversy with a recent tweet calling for the disbandment of America's teachers' unions, labeling them "malevolent and incompetent," and "illiterate." The strong assertion reignites the ongoing national discussion about the influence and effectiveness of these powerful organizations within the U.S. education system.

Faktor's tweet, which stated, "America's teachers unions need to be disbanded. Not only are they malevolent and incompetent, they're also illiterate," reflects long-standing criticisms leveled against teachers' unions. Opponents often argue that unions prioritize the job security and benefits of their members over student outcomes, making it difficult to remove underperforming educators due to tenure protections and collective bargaining agreements. Critics also contend that unions resist accountability measures and wield significant political influence that can hinder educational reforms, including initiatives like charter schools and performance-based pay.

Conversely, proponents of teachers' unions emphasize their vital role in advocating for fair wages, reasonable working conditions, and comprehensive benefits for educators. These efforts, supporters argue, are crucial for attracting and retaining qualified teachers, which ultimately benefits students. Unions also provide legal protection and a unified voice for teachers, addressing issues such as class sizes, professional development opportunities, and protection from arbitrary administrative decisions. The National Education Association (NEA) reported in April 2025 that teachers in states with collective bargaining earn, on average, 24% more than their non-union counterparts, highlighting the economic impact of union representation.

Research on the impact of teachers' unions on student outcomes presents a mixed picture. While some studies suggest that strong union presence can lead to higher teacher salaries and improved working conditions, which may indirectly benefit students by attracting better talent, other analyses have pointed to potential negative correlations with student achievement or resistance to reforms aimed at improving educational quality. The debate often centers on balancing teacher protections and professional advocacy with the need for systemic improvements and accountability in public education.