The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) has endorsed political candidates, marking a significant shift for the organization. Its first endorsement was for Abdul El-Sayed in his primary race against Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan.
This decision has drawn criticism, with some characterizing it as evidence of the far left's influence within academia. The AAUP's president, Todd Wolfson, has previously made contentious statements, including calling J.D. Vance a "fascist" in 2024 and the union siding with Hamas amid the Gaza war, which observers noted as a departure from its prior opposition to academic boycotts.
The union claims that threats to higher education from former President Donald Trump necessitate a deeper engagement in politics. However, critics argue that electing any Democrat would serve this purpose.
Further controversy surrounds the decision-making process. The endorsement was reportedly made on a conference call with approximately 40 members in Michigan, a small fraction of the state's AAUP membership and the organization's national membership of over 40,000. Critics contend this process undermines the AAUP's stated commitment to "shared governance" and "collective voice," labeling it a "hard-left coup."
The union's actions have led to questions about its direction and the broader implications for public trust in higher education. Some suggest that if the national membership does not publicly dissent from this decision, it could indicate a fundamental shift in the values and priorities of university faculties.