Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democrats met with students and college affordability advocacy leaders to discuss the importance of access to affordable education in America.

Significant increases in student loan debt has proven to be a barrier as graduates seek to get ahead and move forward in life. Senate Democrats reiterated their commitment to resolving the exploding student loan debt crisis. Senators discussed many solutions, including encouraging state investment in public higher education, creating a more robust Pell Grant system, increasing transparency in the entire student loan process, and reducing the interest rates for students. A recent study found that for every $10,000 in student loan debt, the likelihood that a graduate will accept employment in the government, nonprofit, or education sectors is reduced by 6 percent, particularly for jobs in education.

“In today’s global economy, higher education is increasingly vital to achieving the American Dream, but it is also more expensive than ever,” said Senator Mark Begich (D-AK), Chairman of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee. “This is a huge problem, as too many young people in Alaska and across America can’t get ahead because of the burden of college debt. Many young Americans are unable to buy a home, save for retirement, start a business, or even start a family. This is holding back our entire economy and I will keep fighting to make sure education is affordable and available for all Alaskans.”

While there has been great strides in accessibility of education, college affordability continues to simply be too difficult for middle-class families and students. Senate Democrats remain committed to ensuring access to an affordable education so that all students can get a fair shot at achieving the American Dream.

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