Presidential hopeful John McCain released his much anticipated education policy just in time for the rush back to school. While Senator Obama has had his education policy in place for some time, Senator McCain has had little to say to students on the subject until now. But as students across the country return to campus, candidates are sure to begin courting the youth vote – a demographic that has skyrocketed in the past two elections – harder than ever. And when it comes to higher education, the differences between the two candidates are palpable. Senator McCain broadly advocates for simplifying educational tax benefits, consolidating financial aid programs, eliminating earmarks to support university research, leveraging the private sector to provide more student loans, and opposes Affirmative Action (a policy he formerly supported). Senator Obama focuses mainly on college access and affordability, and his policies cite more specifics than his opponent’s. He has proposed the American Opportunity Tax Credit that will significantly (and in some cases entirely) cover the costs of college tuition for the average family, and is also advocating for a simplified federal financial aid application. And Senator Obama supports Affirmative Action. While polls have shown that students tend to favor Senator Obama, students of all political persuasions are gearing up to take an active role in presidential politics this fall.

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Senator Obama’s education plan
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