Government | Inside Higher Ed

Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, a white man with a white beard and a mostly bald head, wearing a business suit and glasses, talks with reporters after attending the Republican Senate luncheon in the U.S. Capitol.

Quick Takes

AAU and Others Warn Congress That Trump Is Changing Grant Rules

The White House has to wait until mid-December to finalize a sweeping rule that would give political appointees more power...

Quick Takes

Democrats to Trump: Don’t Destroy Government Records

Democratic leaders are warning the Trump administration to prepare for a slew of records requests and investigations. Less than 12...

Opinion

Columns Resident Scholar

Urgent Agenda Item for Democrats: Save the U.S. Department of Education

Democrats must protect vital Education Department functions when they retake control of Congress in January.

By Shaun Harper

Opinion

Columns Editor’s Note

Hope for What’s Possible

As the country processes historic midterm results, higher ed has a chance to rebuild trust across political lines.

By Sara Custer

People vote at a polling location on Election Day during the midterm elections in South Portland, Maine, on Nov. 3, 2026.

Government Politics & Elections

5 Takeaways From Democrats’ Historic Night

The election results will likely reshape the balance of power in the U.S. for years to come. Higher ed advocates are hopeful that the new Congress will advance their priorities, from college affordability to academic freedom. Here’s what to know so far.

Texas gov.-elect, State Rep. Gina Hinojosa and U.S. Sen.-elect James Talarico (D-TX) toast with a fountain beverage at a Whataburger restaurant at the conclusion of a midterm election night watch party at the Long Center on November 3, 2026 in Austin, Texas.

Government Politics & Elections