At least 31 members of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) have been elected or reelected to public office in the November 4, 2025 general election, according to an initial analysis by the union. The results highlight a trend of educators and public-service professionals taking active roles in their local governments.
“This is what happens when working people lead,” said NYSUT President Melinda Person. “NYSUT members are proving that public service and community leadership go hand in hand and that our shared values of fairness, opportunity and respect belong at every level of government.”
The union attributed these electoral victories to strong community ties and the trust placed in educators. NYSUT noted that its members’ involvement in their communities—through listening, serving, and showing up—resonated with voters who sought practical solutions from familiar faces.
Among those elected was former NYSUT member Michael Cashman, who won a seat representing the 115th District in the New York State Assembly after significant support from fellow union members in the North Country. In addition, several candidates endorsed by NYSUT secured positions in county legislatures across Orange and Dutchess counties, including Sparrow Tobin, a teacher from Washingtonville and a member of NYSUT’s Board of Directors. In Rochester, Marv Stepherson appears set to win a Monroe County Legislature seat with backing from colleagues at Monroe Community College Faculty Association.
These successes were achieved through NYSUT’s Pipeline Project, which focuses on recruiting, training, and supporting educators who wish to run for public office. The project aims to empower individuals who understand the needs facing working families because they are themselves active community members.
“These wins show the power of educators leading with purpose. NYSUT will continue building a movement that puts students, families and working people first — in every classroom, every community and every elected office,” stated Person.
