Staff Reports
President Biden’s old campaign promise to address student loan forgiveness is once again causing a stir as a coalition of Republican-led states has filed a lawsuit challenging his efforts. The president’s initial plan to cancel $10,000 of federal student debt per borrower was deemed illegal by the Supreme Court, and now the GOP is hitting back with a new lawsuit, claiming that the president’s actions are still illegal.
Thankfully some are trying to take him to task over it.
Biden faces fresh political peril with latest student loans lawsuit – Washington Examiner https://t.co/sLaHjJlFoc
— Cassis (@cassisnouveau) April 1, 2024
Not only has Biden faced legal challenges, but his decision to pursue student debt cancellation without congressional support has aggravated the Republicans further. They argue that Biden’s plans effectively amount to a wealth transfer from non-college-educated individuals to those with student debt. The outrage from the GOP is palpable, with Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach leading the charge, asserting that it’s unfair to burden taxpayers with the costs of student loan forgiveness.
On the other hand, advocates for student loan forgiveness argue that relieving the burden of student debt will allow younger individuals to focus on important life milestones, such as buying homes and starting families. A poll released by the Student Borrower Protection Center suggests that government action to address student loan debt is supported by around 75% of voters, with 50% of registered voters in favor of debt cancellation.
Despite facing legal challenges and opposition from Republicans, President Biden seems determined to pursue his student debt cancellation plans. His administration hosted a “Day of Action” to promote student loan programs, with the president openly boasting that the Supreme Court didn’t stop him. Nevertheless, the looming threat of lawsuits from Kansas and Missouri could put a damper on Biden’s efforts and potentially leave voters disappointed and angry.
Democratic strategists believe that Biden should stay the course and continue his push for student debt relief despite the legal hurdles and potential backlash. They suggest that the president should maintain his commitment to addressing student loan forgiveness and shift the focus to his efforts rather than getting mired in a battle with the GOP.
As the legal battle unfolds, the stakes are high for President Biden’s reelection campaign in 2024, especially among younger voters. The outcome of these lawsuits could significantly impact the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises and navigate the political landscape leading up to the next election.
