Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) CEO Jorge Elorza issued the following statement in response to the Biden administration’s proposed cut to funding for the federal Charter Schools Program, released today by the U.S. Department of Education:

“We are deeply troubled by the Biden administration’s proposal to slash $40 million from the Charter School Program’s (CSP) proposed budget. This decision is dangerous for the future of our kids and the electoral prospects of Democrats across the country. 

Public charter schools enjoy wide support, and for good reason. They offer innovative and effective educational opportunities to families, and they particularly benefit Democratic base voters: low-income, Black and brown communities. Ten years ago, Democrats enjoyed a 26 point advantage over Republicans on voters’ trust on education. Today, that advantage is gone due in large part to decisions like these.

Polling has made it clear that public school choice, and public charters, continue to retain immense popularity, with data showing that over 70% of Black and Latino voters, Democrats, and parents view public charter schools favorably. In swing states, 78% of voters said electeds should increase public school options beyond students’ traditionally zoned public schools, allowing families to select the best school to meet their child’s needs. Voters are clearly demanding public school choice but instead of embracing it, the administration is retreating from it. This is a mistake.

In short: the administration’s cuts to public school choice give the least consideration to the very communities the president needs the most. It not only hurts students, it hurts the president’s re-election chances.”