Chicago City Wire

The upcoming elections for the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) on May 16, 2025, present a complex landscape with significant implications for the union's future leadership. The current CTU president, Stacy Davis Gates, is seeking reelection amid a backdrop of political activism and internal divisions within the union.

Davis Gates initially rose to power following Jesse Sharkey's decision not to seek a third term in 2022. Her leadership has been marked by an increase in political activities, including supporting CTU organizer Brandon Johnson's move into City Hall. However, her tenure has also seen growing tensions among the three main caucuses within the union: CORE, Members First, and REAL.

The REAL Caucus emerged as a new contender in this year's election, challenging Davis Gates' leadership. Despite their differences with CORE being primarily personality-driven rather than ideological, REAL aims to unseat Davis Gates by appealing to CTU voters dissatisfied with the current leadership.

Erika Meza leads the REAL slate and has attempted to position her caucus as a viable alternative to CORE. However, critics argue that REAL's platform closely mirrors CORE's radical ideas and does not offer a genuine change in direction for the union.

Members First has opted not to form a slate for this election cycle, which may simplify Davis Gates' path to reelection. Nonetheless, how much of an obstacle REAL presents remains uncertain. Their strategy hinges on convincing eligible voters that change is necessary and possible through their leadership.

As CTU members prepare for the upcoming election, they face difficult choices regarding the union's direction. Some voices suggest non-participation as a means of expressing dissatisfaction with what they perceive as extreme ideological positions held by both leading factions.