Texas’ governor is spending millions & using anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric to defund public education

LGBTQ Nation, By Daniel Villarreal , on May 24, 2024

https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2024/05/texas-governor-is-spending-millions-using-anti-lgbtq-rhetoric-to-defund-public-education/ 

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott is promoting a school voucher program to redirect taxpayer funds to private schools, aiming to enhance parental choice. Abbott's push faces resistance, even within his own party. He argues parents should support vouchers to avoid LGBTQ+ teachers educating their children, despite past legislative failures.

The program's supporters say it expands parental rights by financially supporting private school attendance. Critics claim it undermines public schools and worsens inequality. Abbott's campaign involves substantial financial backing for pro-voucher candidates, targeting GOP dissenters.

Jason Friedman likens Abbott's campaign to a business operation aimed at consolidating power. Cindy traces the GOP's effort to weaken public education to the Reagan era, noting Texas ranks low in educational attainment. She argues Abbott's rhetoric is a distraction from real issues like underfunding.

Kara discusses the social impact, arguing the fear of LGBTQ+ teachers is baseless and manipulative. The panel also suggests Abbott's campaign might lead to lawsuits against public schools over race and LGBTQ+ issues, potentially influencing Supreme Court rulings.

Overall, the Texas voucher debate intertwines political maneuvering, financial interests, and ideological battles, with significant implications for education's future.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.23.1 featuring Scott Dickie, Kara Griffin, Cindy Plaza and Jason Friedman

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