February 05, 2021
Confirmation Process Begins for Biden Education Secretary Nominee
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) held its first hearing of the 117th Congress to begin the confirmation process for Miguel Cardona to serve as the 12th Secretary of Education. The Cardona hearing, the first official duty of newly-confirmed Chairwoman of the committee Patty Murray (D-WA), served as the first opportunity for senators to question Cardona about his education agenda and what his priorities will be as Secretary.
Among the wide range of topics covered during the hearing, Cardona was asked about his efforts to tackle student loan debt; prioritize community colleges, students with disabilities, and issues of mental health; enhance career and technical education; and ensure that all students are protected under any sex discrimination efforts by the Administration. There was no mention of private, nonprofit institutions of higher education.
The committee will reconvene on February 11th to vote on Cardona’s nomination and submit its recommendation to the full Senate. Once this recommendation is submitted, the full Senate will debate and vote on Cardona’s nomination.
Among the wide range of topics covered during the hearing, Cardona was asked about his efforts to tackle student loan debt; prioritize community colleges, students with disabilities, and issues of mental health; enhance career and technical education; and ensure that all students are protected under any sex discrimination efforts by the Administration. There was no mention of private, nonprofit institutions of higher education.
The committee will reconvene on February 11th to vote on Cardona’s nomination and submit its recommendation to the full Senate. Once this recommendation is submitted, the full Senate will debate and vote on Cardona’s nomination.