Owens, Williams Launch the Merit Caucus

Jul 10, 2024
Congress
Education & Workforce Development
Press

WASHINGTON — Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04), Chair of the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, and Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) announced the Merit Caucus, a coalition of members dedicated to advancing a merit-based system in classrooms that will help ensure students are receiving the best education, regardless of background or income. 

“America is the land of equal opportunity, not the land of equal outcome,” said Rep. Owens. “The Left’s war on meritocracy has gone too far, lowering standards for students and teachers, discouraging achievement in the classroom, and eliminating academic excellence, all in the name of equity. I’m proud to launch the first-ever House Merit Caucus to bring back the old-fashioned common sense that my dad, a WWII vet, taught me growing up: there is no substitute for meritocracy and hard work.”

“The fight to keep the American Dream alive starts in our classrooms,” said Rep. Williams. “To prepare our children for the complex challenges that await them in the decades to come, we must commit to encouraging excellence and rewarding merit. I am excited to join Rep. Owens in this effort, in support of students and families across America.”

Background: 

The mission of the Merit Caucus is to advance and protect challenging curricula in the American education system, so all students across the country, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, have the chance to succeed and reach their full potential. Members of this caucus will collaborate on policy advocating for a merit-based system in classrooms that helps students receive the best education possible, setting them up for success and strengthening the future of America.

More information about the Merit Caucus is available here

Washington Examiner: House Republican launches caucus to combat DEI in education

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