Randi Weingarten, the controversial American Federation of Teachers union head, has been appointed to the Department of Homeland Security School Safety Board, leading to widespread criticism. Weingarten, who has no security expertise, has been notorious for promoting school lockdowns during the pandemic, despite the negative consequences on children’s mental health and academic progress. She will now serve on the Homeland Security Academic Partnership Council, which advises on matters like campus safety and research priorities. However, critics argue her appointment is purely political and question the Biden administration’s priorities. They assert that Weingarten’s unqualified appointment reflects the influence of powerful donors over the welfare of America’s children.
