School vouchers and private-school subsidies are crucial issues in several governor’s races this year. Democrats aim to win over suburban and rural voters by focusing on public school funding. The debate prominently affects five states: Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas. In these states, candidates clash over programs that direct public funds towards private education.
Why It Matters
School-choice programs have rapidly expanded, with many Republican-led states adopting universal or near-universal voucher and education savings account (ESA) programs. Critics worry these programs divert money from public schools, while supporters argue parents should choose schools that best suit their children. The upcoming elections could hinge on this issue.
States Where School Vouchers Are a Major Election Issue
Arizona
Democrats defend the governor’s office, while Republicans support a broad voucher program. Democrat Katie Hobbs faces Andy Biggs. Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account program offers universal eligibility, enrolling over 99,000 students as of January. Critics argue these programs detract from public schools.
“While private school vouchers have a legitimate place in American education, they must not detract from public school quality,” William Hall, a professor at Webster University, said.
Florida
Florida has one of the largest universal school-choice systems. Democrats criticize its impact on public-school funding. Republican Byron Donalds supports the system, while Democrat David Jolly focuses on improving public education. Florida’s school choice program enrolls about 1.4 million students.
Iowa
In Iowa’s governor race, Democratic Rob Sand and Republican Zach Lahn debate school vouchers. The Students First Act expanded Education Savings Accounts statewide, offering $7,773 per student.
“Iowa believes in empowering students with world-class educational options,” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said during an announcement.
Ohio
Ohio’s voucher programs continue expanding. Education funding is a campaign priority between Democrat Amy Acton and Republican Vivek Ramaswamy. Ohio voters often reject vouchers directly, so proponents work through legislatures.
Texas
Texas enacted the Education Freedom Act, creating a universal ESA program worth about $10,800 per student. Democrats focus on opposing the program. Gina Hinojosa, a Democratic candidate, criticizes the allocation of funds.
“The money at the Texas Education Agency is bureaucracy. It would be better spent in the classroom where schools face financial struggles,” Hinojosa said.
States with the Biggest Funding Gaps
Though limited data exists on funding gaps between voucher and public school programs, these states have significant voucher funding available:
- Texas: Universal ESA provides $10,800 per student annually.
- Utah: Uniform scholarship program offers $8,000 per student.
- Iowa: Phased universal ESA provides $7,773 per student, starting 2025-2026.
- Florida: Universal school choice through Family Empowerment Scholarships.
Lisa Lightner, a special education advocate, questions voucher presentation in the U.S.
“It takes money from public education, benefiting higher income levels who planned private school enrollment anyway,” Lightner said.
What Happens Next
With governor’s races tightening, education funding and school-choice programs will remain central campaign issues through Election Day, November 3. In Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas, Democrats argue that vouchers diverted resources from public schools. Republicans present them as tools for expanding parental choice. These elections could determine the future of these programs.