Sparks, Davis Come To The Defense Of AEA

Democratic candidates for Governor Artur Davis and Ron Sparks came (somewhat) to the defense of the Alabama Education Association teacher's union after they were attacked by Bradley Byrne:

Byrne called the teachers' organization the greatest impediment to quality education in the state.

U.S. Rep. Artur Davis said Wednesday he's disagreed with AEA on issues such as charter schools, but "Byrne's denunciation of AEA is the opposite of the consensus building that a governor needs to practice."

Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks called Byrne's criticism unwarranted and said he supports "the transformation AEA has delivered to our state's educational system."

AEA has reported giving $35,000 in campaign contributions to Sparks, but none to Davis.