The Inseparable Bond: Democrats and Public Schools in the Modern Era

Democrats are divided on the future of public education, with some advocating for a more sweeping reinvention of the system and a stronger response to school culture wars, while others fear losing votes and believe the Biden administration should promote a liberal version of public school choice. Republican governors have been signing historic private school choice laws, leading to enrollment shifts to private and home schools. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona is facing pressure to protect public schools while navigating disagreements between labor unions and education reform groups. Democrats are trailing or tied with Republicans in battleground states when it comes to public school trust, and some believe embracing school choice is necessary to prevent further losses to Republicans.