Higher Education and the Presidential Election

The 2024 presidential election could have significant effects on higher education, with candidates offering contrasting views on its future. While large policy shifts may be unlikely due to the limits on presidential power, the election will influence issues like college affordability, student debt, access, and campus culture.

Political Divides on Higher Education

The election highlights deep divisions between Democrats and Republicans on higher education’s value and role. Democrats, led by Kamala Harris, view higher education as a path to socioeconomic mobility, advocating for increased access and accountability. Republicans, led by Donald Trump, criticize higher education as overly liberal and propose reforms to reduce federal oversight, restrict diversity initiatives, and promote vocational training.

  • Republicans: Their platform includes reducing federal control, privatizing student loans, and promoting alternatives like apprenticeships. They advocate for reducing DEI efforts and tightening campus free speech policies. 
  • Democrats: Democrats favor tuition-free college for low-income families, debt forgiveness, and more support for HBCUs and STEM programs. Harris, a graduate of Howard University, has emphasized the importance of HBCUs and free college initiatives. 
Cultural and Economic Pressures 

Higher education is facing cultural and economic challenges, including rising tuition costs, declining public confidence, and shifting workforce demands. AI is transforming learning, while declining student enrollment is pushing institutions to adapt. Political controversies around free speech and academic freedom are intensifying, with Republicans criticizing liberal campus culture and Democrats defending academic freedom.

Student Debt and Access 

Student debt is a central issue. Democrats continue to push for debt forgiveness and making college more affordable. Republicans, however, favor privatizing student loans and reducing government involvement in education funding. 

Apprenticeships and Workforce Development 

Both parties are focusing more on apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional college pathways. Democrats support expanding federally registered apprenticeships, while Republicans back industry-recognized programs that reduce federal regulation. This reflects the growing recognition that not everyone needs a four-year degree, especially with concerns over student debt. 

Hot Topics in Higher Education
  • Free Speech and Campus Culture: Republicans seek more oversight of college campuses, criticizing them for left-leaning ideologies. Democrats support free speech and academic freedom.
  • Affordability and Access: Democrats advocate for tuition-free college and debt forgiveness, while Republicans aim to reduce federal intervention in education funding.
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): DEI initiatives are a point of contention, with Republicans aiming to scale them back, while Democrats push for more inclusivity.
  • Alternative Education Pathways: Both parties are promoting apprenticeships and technical programs as alternatives to traditional degrees.
  • Global Competitiveness: There is increasing pressure on colleges to contribute to the U.S.’s global competitiveness through research and innovation. 

The 2024 election offers starkly different visions for higher education. While legislative changes may be limited, the election will shape the sector’s tone and direction on issues like student debt, campus culture, and alternative education pathways. The future of higher education will be significantly influenced by who takes the White House. 

By Cat Hollands, Capture Client Trainer, Capture Higher Ed