Free Higher Education: An Investment in Our Future

I advocate for guaranteeing tuition-free and debt-free access to public non-profit colleges, universities, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and trade schools for all American citizens. Ensuring equitable access to higher education is a critical step toward closing societal equity gaps and creating a more prosperous and fair nation. Every student should have the opportunity to pursue their education without the crushing burden of debt.

The current student debt landscape underscores the urgency of this issue:

The average graduate owes $30,000 in student loans.

1 in 6 borrowers owes over $50,000.

40% of students drop out of college to avoid taking on more debt, yet they leave with significant financial burdens.

This issue isn’t limited to young people—three million older Americans are still burdened by student loan debt. Women, in particular, bear a disproportionate load, holding $929 billion of U.S. student debt as of 2019.

Furthermore, 73% of student debt negatively impacts the bottom 80% of the population, making it a significant barrier to economic mobility.

Why Free Higher Education Matters:

Increased Enrollment and Economic Mobility: Free access to higher education increases enrollment, especially among marginalized communities, providing more people with pathways to upward mobility.

Reduced Dropout Rates: Students who don’t have to worry about accumulating debt are more likely to complete their degrees and pursue their career goals.

Strengthened Workforce: Trade schools, colleges, and universities are vital for building the skilled workforce America needs to remain competitive in the global economy.

Intergenerational Relief: Addressing student debt doesn’t just help young people—it relieves older Americans and families burdened by debt, allowing them to save, invest, and contribute more to their communities.

Providing free access to higher education is an investment in the future of our nation. By removing financial barriers, we can build a society where talent and ambition—not income or debt—determine success. This approach strengthens our economy, lifts families out of poverty, and fosters a more inclusive, equitable future for all.