Following the November 3, 2026 midterm elections, congressional Democrats are preparing to take control of both the House and the Senate in January 2027.
This sets up a direct confrontation with the Trump administration over federal education policy as reported by GovTech.
Democratic representatives Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon and Jahana Hayes of Connecticut are challenging incumbent ranking member Bobby Scott of Virginia to lead the House Education and Workforce Committee, The Hill reports.
The incoming majority aims to lower childcare costs, reverse the dismantling of the Education Department, and address student loan affordability.
Supporters of Scott emphasize his long tenure and results-driven approach on the panel.
There is no reason other than personal ambition to change the direction of the leadership of our committee. And I stand 100 percent with Bobby, and look forward to him serving as our chairman,
Rep. Donald Norcross of New Jersey told The Hill.
Scott has served on the panel since 1993.
Bonamici was first elected in 2011, and Hayes joined Congress seven years ago.
In the Senate, Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont who caucuses with Democrats, is poised to lead the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Sanders previously chaired the panel from 2023 to 2025.
With control of both congressional chambers, Democrats plan to use oversight hearings and the appropriations process to challenge executive actions according to Education Next.
Lawmakers intend to scrutinize interagency agreements used to restructure the Department of Education and investigate changes to civil rights enforcement.
Federal education programs are currently operating under a continuing resolution providing flat funding through December 11, NCAN notes.
The House Appropriations Committee has approved its Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies bill, while the Senate has yet to release its version.
Following the midterm elections, Democrats secured majorities in both chambers.
The House tally showed Democrats winning 253 seats and Republicans taking 157 seats, alongside 25 undecided races.
In the Senate, Democrats are projected to hold between 54 and 56 seats.
However, any legislation requiring increased federal spending will face obstacles while President Donald J Trump retains the veto, Source notes.
Because President Donald J Trump retains the veto, lawmakers will need to manage divided political dynamics to enact new policy.
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