ADVOCACY & POLICY UPDATE - October 26, 2026

ED Secretary Touts Administration’s Higher Ed Accomplishments

Appropriations/Midterms

Last week, Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Chair Shelley Moore Capito (WV), said funding for the Pentagon will be a key issue in post-election negotiations to fund the federal government beyond December 11. Congress has not advanced either a standalone war funding package or a bipartisan increase in military spending. Capito said additional defense funding could be considered during the lame-duck session, potentially through a reconciliation package, although that approach would require sufficient support. Senator Kevin Cramer (ND) said Republicans should prepare for a worst-case scenario on spending in which Congress passes a continuing resolution (CR) through the end of FY27. He also expressed support for pursuing a reconciliation package during the lame-duck session, saying it may be the only vehicle for additional funding and citing the need to increase defense spending. Capito also expressed hope that lawmakers would make progress on FY27 appropriations bills after the midterm elections.

Meanwhile, House Budget Committee member Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA) said he is seeking the committee’s top Republican position, either as chair or ranking member depending on which party controls the House after the midterm elections. Smucker said he has had productive discussion with the House GOP Steering Committee, which plays a key role in committee assignments.

U.S. Department of Education

On Wednesday, October 21, U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon delivered remarks at the College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas as part of her “The Next 250: American Education” speaking series. Speaking to more than 50 community college students pursuing automotive mechanic credentials, along with faculty and staff, McMahon outlined the Trump Administration’s workforce priorities, including expanding access to career pathways through Workforce Pell and investments in Registered Apprenticeships. 

The Las Vegas speech was the second in a four-part series highlighting the Administration’s education priorities. In Utah, her first stop, McMahon discussed K-12 education and the Administration’s efforts to redirect funding away from diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. At her third stop in Tempe, Arizona, she highlighted Workforce Pell, support for historically Black colleges and universities and community colleges, as well as changes to federal student aid programs. Her final speech, scheduled for Tennessee this week, will focus on public trust, administrative oversight and academic standards in higher education. The series comes ahead of the November elections. 

Click here to access the full press release.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Rule

On Wednesday, October 21, the Trump administration dropped its appeals of two federal court rulings that struck down a rule restricting eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Established in 2007, PSLF forgives remaining federal student loan balances for eligible government and nonprofit employees after 10 years of qualifying service and payments. Finalized in October 2025, the rule would have allowed the Department of Education to disqualify employers deemed to have a substantial illegal purpose, including based on certain immigration-related activities and other conduct. Two federal judges vacated the rule in June 2026 after a coalition of organizations challenged its legality. The Administration’s decision leaves those rulings in place, preserving existing PSLF eligibility rules. The administration did not publicly explain its decision. 

Careers in Energy Week

On Monday, October 19, Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating October 19-October 23 “Careers in Energy Week.” The resolution recognizes the contributions of the nation’s skilled and growing energy workforce and encourages partnerships between industry and schools to raise awareness of career pathways that support local economies and the energy sector. 

Click here to access the full press release and the full text of the resolution.