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Sean Spiller—A Union Man’s Ascent and Montclair’s Controversial Legacy

Sean Spiller, Montclair’s former mayor and the current president of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), is making a high-profile run for governor in 2025. His political career, however, is far from a straightforward climb. With allegations of conflicts of interest, costly legal controversies, and questions about union-backed governance, Spiller's track record invites scrutiny as he campaigns for statewide office.

A Rocky Start: From BoSE to Mayor

Spiller’s political rise began with controversy in 2016 when he was removed from Montclair’s Board of School Estimate (BoSE). A Superior Court ruling determined that his dual role as NJEA treasurer created an “undeniable conflict of interest” in approving school budgets that directly benefited the union. While this decision sidelined Spiller in one capacity, it didn’t stop him from pursuing greater political ambitions.

In 2020, Spiller leveraged his NJEA connections to secure Montclair’s mayoral seat. Critics questioned how someone deemed unfit for a position overseeing school budgets could take on the broader responsibilities of mayor, especially given the complex relationship between local government and public education.

COVID-19 and Educational Delays

As mayor, Spiller’s alignment with the NJEA became a focal point during the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2021, the Montclair Education Association delayed reopening schools, citing safety concerns. Spiller supported the decision, which critics argue disproportionately affected Montclair’s most vulnerable students, exacerbating educational inequities.

“His loyalty to the NJEA came at the expense of our children,” said a Montclair resident. “Our town’s recovery from the pandemic was set back because he prioritized union agendas over the needs of our students and families.”

The Whistleblower Lawsuit

In 2023, Montclair’s Chief Financial Officer, Padmaja Rao, filed a whistleblower lawsuit alleging that Spiller and other part-time officials improperly enrolled in the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program (SHBP). Designed for full-time employees, the SHBP offers medical, dental, and prescription coverage, but state law prohibits part-time officials from accessing these benefits.

Rao’s lawsuit accused Spiller of retaliation after she raised concerns about these violations. The township settled the case in May 2024 for $1.25 million, including $1 million in legal fees—costs borne by Montclair taxpayers. Spiller invoked his Fifth Amendment rights over 400 times during depositions, citing an ongoing investigation by the Attorney General’s Office.

Union-Backed Ambitions

As NJEA president since 2021, Spiller has directed substantial union resources toward his political campaigns. The NJEA’s Super PAC, Garden State Forward, has spent millions supporting Spiller’s gubernatorial bid, raising concerns about the ethics of using union dues for individual political ambitions.

Reports indicate that the NJEA plans to funnel up to $35 million into Spiller’s campaign through a new Super PAC, Working New Jersey. Critics argue this financial clout creates a “union puppet” dynamic, where Spiller’s decisions may prioritize NJEA interests over broader state needs.

State Health Benefits and Pay-to-Decline Controversy

Adding to the controversy is the issue of state health benefits. Part-time officials in Montclair, including Spiller, were found to have either enrolled in SHBP or accepted payments for waiving coverage. State law allows employees to receive up to $5,000 annually for declining health benefits, provided they have alternative coverage. However, the legality of these arrangements for part-time officials remains under scrutiny.

The Acorn of the Day: A Question of Trust

Sean Spiller’s rise from Montclair’s controversial mayor to gubernatorial candidate underscores a critical question: Can a leader so deeply tied to union interests govern for the good of all New Jersey residents? Montclair saw firsthand the complexities—and costs—of Spiller’s leadership. From pandemic setbacks to legal battles, his tenure left a legacy that some view as prioritizing personal and union gains over public interest.

By James Dargan, The Daily Squirrel

Reporting supported by ChatGPT’s research and editorial insights.

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