Brian Kasal, President of the Northside Republicans, expressed concern over Stacy Davis Gates' election to lead the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT), describing it as a troubling development. He argued that her approach prioritizes ideology over students' needs. Kasal made these remarks to Chicago City Wire.

"The election of Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates to lead the Illinois Federation of Teachers marks a troubling shift for Illinois families and students," said Kasal.

"Davis Gates, who demands accountability from the wealthy while repeatedly failing to pay her own bills, embodies hypocrisy rather than integrity. Her focus has consistently been on advancing a radical political agenda instead of addressing the real needs of teachers, classrooms, and children. Under Davis Gates, IFT will be more about politics and power than education and student success."

According to the Illinois Policy Institute, Stacy Davis Gates, who is also the President of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), was elected head of the IFT on October 18. This new role allows her to extend her influence across 200 affiliates while maintaining control at CTU. Under her leadership, CTU has focused on progressive causes such as police-free schools and carbon neutrality rather than teacher representation, with only 18% of its 2025 budget allocated for this purpose.