Student Debt and Higher Education in 2028
The more than $1.7 trillion in outstanding student loan debt and broader questions about college affordability.
Outstanding student loan debt in the United States exceeded $1.7 trillion, a burden carried by roughly 40 million Americans. The Biden administration attempted multiple rounds of debt cancellation, most of which were blocked or limited by federal courts.
The affordability crisis in higher education reflects decades of rising tuition, declining state subsidies for public universities, and a widespread expectation that a college degree is necessary for middle-class economic participation. At the same time, the return on investment for many degrees has been questioned.
The policy debate includes whether existing debt should be forgiven and for whom, whether and how to make college more affordable going forward, and whether the problem is best addressed through four-year colleges or by investing in alternative credentials.
Why it matters in 2028
Student loan policy became one of the most politically charged economic issues of the mid-2020s. Younger voters carry the most debt and are among the most attentive to candidates' positions. Older voters who did not receive debt relief and taxpayers who did not attend college are also attentive to the fairness arguments on the other side.
How each party frames student debt and higher education
A neutral summary of each party's general governing approach. Individual 2028 candidates will differ - no nominee has been chosen yet.
Democratic approach
Democrats broadly support expanded student debt relief, including targeted forgiveness for borrowers in certain programs, lower income-based repayment requirements, and free or subsidized community college. Many in the party support free public college or substantially reduced tuition at public universities. Democrats tend to frame student debt as a burden that holds back economic participation and disproportionately affects lower-income borrowers and people of color.
Republican approach
Republicans broadly oppose broad-based student debt cancellation, arguing it is unfair to those who paid their loans, did not attend college, or chose less expensive institutions, and that it fails to address the underlying cost problem. The party tends to favor policies that increase competition and transparency in higher education, reduce administrative bloat, and expand alternatives like vocational training and apprenticeships. Some Republicans support targeted relief for defrauded borrowers.
Who is in the field on student debt and higher education
No party has nominated a 2028 candidate yet. As contenders formally declare and stake out positions on student debt and higher education, each candidate profile will be updated. The leading contenders so far:
Democratic contenders
- Gavin NewsomLikely to run
- Kamala HarrisLikely to run
- Pete ButtigiegLikely to run
- Alexandria Ocasio-CortezLikely to run
- Josh ShapiroLikely to run
Republican contenders
- JD VanceLikely to run
- Marco RubioLikely to run
- Ron DeSantisLikely to run
- Ted CruzPossible
- Rand PaulPossible
Tracker updated July 14, 2026. Click any name to see their full profile, background, and current status.
What 2028 will have to answer on student debt and higher education
- Would candidates cancel any existing student loan debt?
- How would candidates make college more affordable going forward?
- Should taxpayers pay for other people's student loans?
- Is a four-year college degree still worth it, and what do candidates think?
- What would candidates do to hold colleges accountable for tuition increases?
Other 2028 issues
How 2028 candidates plan to manage economic growth, consumer prices, and the cost of living.
Border enforcement, legal immigration pathways, and the future of undocumented immigrants already in the U.S.
Federal and state abortion policy after the Supreme Court returned the issue to state legislatures in 2022.
Health insurance coverage, drug prices, and the long-running debate over the structure of the American health system.
Federal tax policy, including the expiring provisions of the 2017 tax law and disputes over who pays what.
Employment levels, minimum wage, union rights, and the future of work in an era of automation and AI.