Two huge California unions clash over money, political clout this election season

The California Teachers Association (CTA) and SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) are competing over state budget allocations, with CTA advocating for education funding through Proposition 98 and SEIU-UHW prioritizing Medi-Cal healthcare spending. Their rivalry extends to political endorsements, with CTA supporting billionaire Tom Steyer and SEIU backing former Attorney General Xavier Becerra in the 2026 gubernatorial race.