National Education Association President Becky Pringle released the following statement reacting to the vice presidential debate:

"Tonight, America saw Tim Walz use his teacher voice to illustrate the drastically different visions being presented to America in this election. They heard Governor Walz, a former football coach and teacher, layout Kamala Harris' New Way Forward for America, where middle-class families are supported, our freedoms are protected, and all students - no matter their race, place, or background - have the opportunity to grow into their full brilliance.

"Across the country, educators were so excited to see one of their own on the debate stage, and Tim Walz delivered. They saw Governor Walz speak about providing free meals to students, keeping students and educators safe from gun violence, expanding paid medical leave, and ensuring all Americans have access to affordable health care.

"America also saw on display JD Vance's and Donald Trump's dangerous priorities. Vance doubled down on the policies in Trump's Project 2025 agenda, which focuses on cutting taxes for billionaires, eliminating Head Start, and entirely dismantling the Department of Education. They saw Vance try to defend the undefendable: Donald Trump, a convicted felon who hired Betsy DeVos to loot and privatize public schools and now wants to take away learning opportunities from all students - Black and white, Latino and Asian, Native and newcomer alike.

"The choice in this election couldn't be clearer, which is why NEA members are doing everything possible to ensure Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are elected this November."

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.