House Congressional District 8

Giffords’ record shows commitment to education

Arizona Daily Wildcat

October 27, 2010

Congressional District 8′s incumbent Democrat Gabrielle Giffords has a voting record that shows consistent support for students and educators at all levels. She voted in favor of education bills such as the 2007 College Student Relief Act and an expansion of the original G.I. Bill that provides more money for veterans of the Armed Forces who want to get a college education.

Giffords is likely to continue her support for future educational measures upon reelection.

Challenger Jesse Kelly recently stated in Tucson Weekly that he would support reducing money for education at the federal level. This stance does not bode well for UA students, faculty and staff.

The UA not only receives federal grants to fund research projects, but it also received federal stimulus money to create or keep jobs at the university. Given the state legislature’s propensity to slash school budgets during a financial crisis, we need someone willing to speak on behalf of students, faculty and staff when the state won’t.

Based on Kelly’s statements and political platform, it is highly unlikely he would provide any support, financial or otherwise, to Arizona’s universities.