Feds Probe NJ Teachers Union Over $40M Super PAC Ties
Federal authorities investigate NJEA’s alleged $40M union funds to support ex-president’s failed gubernatorial campaign.
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Federal investigators are examining the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), the state’s largest teachers’ union, over allegations that it funneled nearly $40 million in union funds to support its former president, Sean Spiller, in his failed 2025 Democratic gubernatorial campaign. According to Politico, the union channeled money through two super PACs—Garden State Forward and Working New Jersey—to promote Spiller’s bid for governor.
Union Funds Funneled to Super PACs
The NJEA, which has about 200,000 members, is under scrutiny for allegedly using union funds to support Spiller’s campaign, despite the fact that his actual campaign raised and spent relatively little. Politico reported that Working New Jersey, run by former NJEA officials, spent money on ads and campaign expenses to promote Spiller in the June 2025 primary. The union is also being investigated for funneling at least $5 million to a nonprofit called Protecting Our Democracy, which was linked to Spiller’s campaign.
Subpoenas and Legal Scrutiny
Several individuals connected to Working New Jersey have been subpoenaed, including one confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey. However, the specific legal violations under investigation remain unclear. The union has not yet responded to media inquiries, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office has also declined to comment.
Union’s Financial Influence
NJEA generates over $120 million annually in revenue, primarily from mandatory membership dues and voluntary political contributions. Individual members typically pay between $1,000 and $1,500 per year in combined dues to local, state, and national unions. A 2017 report from the American Enterprise Institute highlighted concerns over union spending, with a 2024 Sunlight Policy Center report alleging that $45 million in dues were wasted on Spiller’s failed gubernatorial run.
Spiller’s Campaign Performance
Spiller placed fifth in the 2025 Democratic primary, receiving just 10.6% of the vote. The primary was won by Mikie Sherrill, who later became New Jersey’s governor. The NJEA’s alleged use of union funds to support Spiller’s campaign has raised questions about the union’s influence and financial practices, especially given its significant role in state politics.
Source: Daily Caller
