ANALYZING TRUMP AND BIDEN'S IMPACT ON HBCUs: A POST-DEBATE FACT CHECK
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Posted By: Catalina Deossa on July 03, 2024 During a presidential debate hosted at CNN's studio in Atlanta on June 27, both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump showcased their respective records on funding Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Biden asserted significant investment in HBCUs since 2021, citing a $16 billion allocation, despite potential inaccuracies in his figures during the debate. Throughout his administration, Biden has consistently emphasized support for these institutions through various initiatives and legislative measures, notably including substantial funding within COVID-19 relief bills. In contrast, Donald Trump's track record on HBCUs was characterized by a mix of legislative actions and conflicting public statements. While his administration implemented measures such as restoring year-round Pell Grants and passing the FUTURE Act, which allocated $255 million annually to HBCUs, Trump's public skepticism about federal funding for HBCUs in 2017 contradicted his administration's actual policy actions. Furthermore, Trump proposed budget cuts exceeding $100 million to HBCU programs, which were ultimately overridden by bipartisan congressional support for increased funding. Critics, including Walter Kimborogh, a former HBCU president, have scrutinized Trump's claims about funding and support for HBCUs. Kimborogh, drawing on his experience leading institutions like Dillard University and Philander Smith College, pointed out that while funding did increase during Trump's tenure, it was largely due to congressional initiatives rather than exclusive presidential actions. Kimborogh characterized Trump's narrative of personal initiative in funding HBCUs as misleading, emphasizing instead the consistent bipartisan support these institutions have historically received in federal budgets. In summary, while both Biden and Trump presented their records on HBCU support during the debate, Biden's administration has been credited with substantial and consistent financial backing for these institutions. Trump's administration, while enacting some supportive measures, faced criticism for conflicting statements and proposed budget cuts that did not align with his claimed support for HBCUs. This contrast highlights differing approaches and outcomes in federal support for HBCUs under the two administrations. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Catalina Deossa
Archaeologist, CHRONOS SAS Florida Int`l Univ class of 2011 Member Since April 2024 |
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