By BEN NEVEUX, Special to the Biddeford Gazette

The Biddeford Teachers Association’s decision to endorse two candidates while leaving Norman Belanger off its list may have been meant to project strength — but instead, it sends a mixed and disappointing message.

When an organization meant to represent fairness and unity appears to play politics, the credibility of its endorsement suffers.

Endorsements are supposed to mean something. They should signal confidence in a candidate’s record, character and commitment to the people they serve. By dividing its support and opening the door to statewide PAC money, the union risks turning what should be a local, values-based decision into a political transaction.

That’s not what Biddeford voters expect from their educators’ representatives.

“Endorsements are supposed
to mean something.”

— Ben Neveux

Leaving Norman Belanger off the endorsement list doesn’t just look like a strategic move — it looks like a snub. Mr. Belanger has a long record of public service and deep roots in this community. To pretend that doesn’t matter undermines the idea that endorsements are earned through experience and trust.

This decision doesn’t strengthen the union’s influence — it weakens it.

Endorsements should lift up leaders who’ve proven their dedication to Biddeford, not serve as bargaining chips in a broader political game. The union owes its members, and this city, better judgment.

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Disclosure: Ben Neveux is a member of the Biddeford Gazette’s volunteer advisory board.

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