At the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) conference in Washington on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, union president Rhonda "Randi" Weingarten delivered a keynote speech sharply critical of President Donald Trump. Weingarten mocked the White House's Independence Day UFC cage match event, saying, "While you missed the UFC cage fight on the White House lawn, it’s not too late to check out the tire marks in the Reflecting Pool."

She characterized Trump’s political tactics as authoritarian, stating, "Because part of what authoritarians do — and also part of what Donald Trump does, whether you consider him an authoritarian or not — is the throwing out of so much stuff that people just throw up their hands and say: ‘Oh no, what are we going to do? All I want to do is stay home and’ -- for those of us who drink – ‘have a glass of wine’ — or for me, some vodka."

Weingarten also reflected on Trump’s appearance the previous day, describing it as "a convulsion nearing death," and noted the significant number of union members residing in swing states ahead of the midterm elections.

During a panel discussion featuring former Obama Attorney General Eric Holder, Weingarten asked what issues keep the panelists awake at night, highlighting the many challenges confronting the country.

She referenced conservative school choice advocates, including reporter Christopher Rufo and the Heritage Foundation, during her remarks.

Concluding her speech, Weingarten expressed her aspiration for an America where "the trans nurse, the Palestinian teacher, the Jewish student and every person, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender or place of origin, feel welcome, safe and valued."

Sources