WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez issued the following statement on his vote against the nomination of Betsy DeVos to serve as Secretary of Education:

“I am deeply disappointed that Republicans put partisanship above our children by jamming through Betsy DeVos’ confirmation for Secretary of Education despite her repeatedly proving to be unfit to serve in this role. They ignored the thousands of parents, students and teachers who lit up Senate office lines in strong and overwhelming opposition to her nomination.

“By voting against Mrs. DeVos, I put students first. We should not entrust the future of our children to someone who has never participated in our public education system in any capacity—either as a student, parent, administrator, or educator—and has worked to undermine it. Mrs. DeVos failed to demonstrate even a basic understanding of critical concepts like growth vs. proficiency or vital federal legislation like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and her only education policies have expressly sought to pull funding away from our public schools. On the contrary, we should be increasing our investment in the next generation by guaranteeing that a free, high-quality education is the birthright of every American.

“While I did not cast my vote in support of Mrs. DeVos, I will continue to engage with her to help New Jersey’s students, parents and educators. I will work to implement the Every Student Succeeds Act, continue to fight for federal funding for New Jersey’s public education system on all levels, and ensure that higher education is more affordable and accessible for every student.”

Sen. Menendez spoke last night during the Democrats’ 24-hour hold of the Senate floor about why he is opposed to the confirmation of Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education.

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