It’s another sign that AAUP has become a political organization, at a time of hyperpoliticization of higher ed more broadly. In a news release, AAUP has trumpeted its “First-Ever National Political Endorsement” going to El-Sayed, a past AAUP member who’s on the ballot in Tuesday’s primary. Some faculty have said this change in the 111-year-old group has eroded its historic importance as a politically neutral defender of academic freedom. We have 60,000 members, and we’re a democratic member organization, and so we reflect the thoughts and will of our overall membership.” The AAUP has started a political action committee, and Wolfson said its new political director will start soon.