With negotiations taking longer than expected and details still being hammered out on the Biden administration's domestic spending plan, hosts Jon Fansmith, Sarah Spreitzer, and Mushtaq Gunja take time to reflect on whether or not the Virginia and New Jersey governor races will be a bellwether for next year's midterm elections. They also talk about the details in the budget reconciliation bill that would enact much of the Biden administration's domestic agenda, including the impact on the maximum Pell Grant, Dreamers, and other programs. They also speak with colleague Morgan Taylor about ACE's latest Pulse Point Survey, where college presidents identified their most pressing concerns: fall operating plans, campus mitigation strategies for COVID-19, how their institution was supporting individuals affected by the crisis in Afghanistan, and their approaches to addressing student mental health.

EPISODE NOTES

Here are some of the links and references from this week's show:

Reconciliation Framework Increases Maximum Pell Grant, Cuts Free Community College

2021 Fall Term Pulse Point Survey of College and University Presidents

ABOUT THE SHOW

Each episode of dotEDU presents a deep dive into a major public policy issue impacting college campuses and students across the country. Hosts from ACE are joined by guest experts to lead you through thought-provoking conversations on topics such as campus free speech, diversity in admissions, college costs and affordability, and more. Find all episodes of the podcast at the dotEDU page.

Tweet suggestions, links, and questions to @ACEducation or email [email protected].

HOSTS

Jon Fansmith is a director of government relations at ACE. He represents ACE and its members on matters related to the federal budget and appropriations process, with a particular focus on student aid.

Mushtaq Gunja serves as vice president and chief of staff at ACE, where he is in charge of strategic initiatives, communications, and membership.

Sarah Spreitzer is a director of government relations at ACE. She represents ACE and its members on matters related to research policy and funding, federal policy, international students, immigration, and legislative issues.