Rep. Mark Harris, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from North Carolina, posted a series of statements on July 16, 2025, criticizing the National Education Association (NEA) and announcing his efforts to repeal its federal charter.
In a post made at 15:42 UTC, Harris wrote: “The NEA is prioritizing politics over education.
They have voted to:
Brand President Trump a fascist
Promote divisive gender ideology
Turn back on antisemitism education
It’s time for Congress to remove its stamp of approval from this Leftist machine.
@Bannons_WarRoom https://t.co/g0hQIBW5tV“.
Later that day, at 16:22 UTC, Harris emphasized the unique status of the NEA among labor unions, stating: “The NEA is the ONLY union in the nation that has a federal charter.
I’m fighting to REPEAL IT!! https://t.co/2UvGpBRF1K“.
At 16:23 UTC, he expressed gratitude for support from several individuals and organizations by posting: “Thank you for standing with me today!
@RepMaryMiller
@RepRalphNorman
@DeAngelisCorey
@TinaDescovich
@Moms4Liberty”.
The NEA is currently the only labor union in the United States with a federal charter granted by Congress. This status provides national recognition but does not give special legal privileges or funding beyond what other unions receive. Federal charters are symbolic acknowledgments by Congress and have been granted to various types of organizations throughout history.
The posts reflect ongoing debates about the role of teachers’ unions in American education policy and their involvement in political advocacy. The NEA has faced criticism from some lawmakers who argue that its positions extend beyond educational issues into broader political activism.
