(Photo: Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)
President Joe Biden has passed numerous executive orders since taking over the White House in January, including forgiving student loan debt. However, his rejection of the plan to forgive $50,000 and drop it to $10,000 instead has drawn a lot of criticism.
Some college students are questioning if he is going back on his promises. Many graduates are paying thousands in student loan debt and feel that Biden is becoming inconsiderate and regret their decision to vote for him.
Amia Symone is one of them.
“Biden is backtracking. He mentioned his 100-day plan and what he would do, and he’s hardly touched the surface,” said Symone, a University of Arkansas student. “The average American takes out over $40,000 in student loans. He’s making people regret they voted for him.”
(Photo courtesy of Amia Symone)
Others are skeptical, while some not surprised.
“When they said the $50,000 was debunked by Biden, I wasn’t shocked; however, I am going to continue to follow this story due to the fact he used it as part of his campaign,” said Lorelle Jackson, a graduate student. “If he doesn’t follow through or up the requirements to qualify, then I would be disappointed in his manipulation towards those who voted for him.”
(Photo courtesy of Lorelle Jackson)
Biden didn’t approve of the $50,000 plan because of the concern that Ivy League students would benefit from it. The assumption is most of them aren’t struggling financially compared to other students.
“Dear Joe Biden, if someone took out loans to attend an Ivy League school that means they couldn’t afford to attend,” tweeted blogger Margaret Kimberley. “Student loan debt peonage means only the rich will have access to the best education. But I guess you’re ok with that.”
Other students don’t care either way because the plan was “unrealistic” and doesn’t affect their post-graduation plans.