By Jesse Russell

The American Federation of Teachers announced record growth since June of last year. Nearly 40,000 new members have joined the union, giving it a membership of 1,361,000. In a press release, AFT President Edward J. McElroy attributes the success to workers wanting union representation. In order to maintain current levels, the union needs to sign up 3,000 workers per week because of retirements, resignations and other factors. New York State added more than 17,000 members. The public employees division suffered a loss due to Indiana governor Mitch Daniels eliminating workers rights and collective bargaining for state workers.