SPRINGFIELD, IL -- (Marketwire) -- 09/11/10 -- The largest education employees' organization in Illinois is recommending state treasurer Alexi Giannoulias for the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by President Barack Obama.
On Friday, the Illinois Education Association Board of Directors voted to recommend Giannoulias and sent the recommendation on to the political action arm of the National Education Association (NEA). IEA is a state affiliate of the NEA.
Once NEA formally accepts the recommendation, the Giannoulias campaign will have access to support and resources from the 3.7 million member national association.
IEA President Ken Swanson said he expects NEA to act swiftly on the Giannoulias recommendation.
"Today's endorsement reflects our belief that Alexi Giannoulias is the only candidate in this race who is a true fighter for Illinois public schools and students," Swanson said.
Alexi Giannoulias shares our belief that America will only remain strong if we invest in our next generation, and that means ensuring teachers have the resources they need to succeed," he added.
The Illinois Education Association represents 133,000 Illinois teachers, education support professionals, higher education faculty and staff, retired education employees and students planning to become teachers.
Contact
Charlie McBarron
IEA Director of Communications
217/321-2214