2014 is a “midterm” election year for members of the House and Senate. Though generally more low profile than presidential election years, the midterms play an important role in determining the balance of power on Capitol Hill. The political party that has the majority of members in the House or Senate is able to drive the legislative agenda and control key leadership positions. With the upcoming reauthorization of several important pieces of legislation including the Perkins Act, Higher Education Act, and Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as well as the continued threat of budget austerity in federal CTE funding, the battle for control of the 114th Congress will certainly have an impact on the future of education and workforce development policy.
Currently, Democrats hold a 10 seat majority (including two Independents who caucus as Democrats) in the Senate; while Republicans have a 34 seat advantage in the House. This divided Congress has been a source of much of the legislative gridlock that has plagued Washington over the past four years, so both sides are eager to take majority control of both chambers to advance their policy agendas when the 114th Congress begins next year. All 435 seats of the House of Representatives, with a two year term of office, will be up for election this year. In the Senate, where staggered six-year terms are used, only 36 of the 100 seats will be up for grabs. Senate Democrats will attempt to hold their majority by defending incumbent senators in key races in states like Alaska, Louisiana, North Carolina and Arkansas. Republicans will attempt to keep their strong majority in the House, while working to add seats in the Senate. Additionally, open races to replace retiring senators in Georgia, Michigan, Montana, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and West Virginia, along with over 40 open seat races in the House, will bring a large freshman class of new legislators.
Many of the new and returning Members of Congress will take positions on key committees that oversee policy and funding for education and workforce development. Congressional elections are a great opportunity engage current and future federal policymakers on issue that are important to you. Educate yourself on the candidates’ policy positions so you can be an informed advocate for CTE at the ballot box. For more information and resources, visit the Election Watch 2014 page on the ACTE website.
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is a nonpartisan organization and does not support or oppose any candidate for public office.
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