Watchdog Group Accuses Teacher’s Union of Illegal Campaign Funding for Shapiro

A watchdog group has accused the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) of illegally funding Gov. Josh Shapiro’s (D) 2022 campaign. The Freedom Foundation claims that PSEA laundered $1.5 million through the Democratic Governors Association (DGA) to support Shapiro. Complaints were filed with the FBI, IRS, and other state authorities, alleging violations of Pennsylvania laws and the Internal Revenue Code.

Maxford Nelsen of the Freedom Foundation stated, “PSEA’s scheme… appears to have violated an array of Pennsylvania laws.” The funds were allegedly funneled from PSEA to the DGA through a PSEA-created Fund For Student Success (FSS). The DGA reportedly contributed $5.6 million to Shapiro’s campaign.

The foundation’s complaints detail alleged breaches of the PA Election Code and PA Public Employee Relations Act. They assert that PSEA used member dues for political contributions, which is prohibited by state law. Further allegations include fraudulent tax returns filed by FSS, which misrepresented the recipients of the funds, and the DGA’s failure to disclose the funding sources.

The foundation has called for investigations by various state and federal agencies. Shapiro’s office and the PSEA have not yet responded to these allegations. The controversy arises as Shapiro is being considered as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris.