College Students: The GOP Is Coming for Us (Again)

Even though they claim an elephant never forgets, the GOP clearly doesn't remember what a bad idea it was last year when they tried to raise student loan rates to pay for tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires. They're trying to raise our loan rates yet again.

Last year, students from across the country rallied together to urge Republicans in Congress to keep student loan interest rates from increasing, standing as one to say, "Don't Double My Rate!"

Students cannot afford such an outrageous increase. The GOP often seems to forget that young Americans are tasked with reinvigorating our nation's economy; by adding to our debt burden, Republicans are promising to stifle economic growth for decades to come

President Obama understands the importance of college affordability, and he has made it a priority throughout his years in office. Last year, he helped the average student borrower save over $1,000 by keeping rates low.

To the Republicans on the Hill, that number might not seem like much, but to America's college students and middle-class families, that's textbooks and meals, and more importantly, it gives us the ability to plan a financially stable future. As someone who put herself through college on student loans and part-time jobs, I understand on a personal level the impact this could have on students and our families.

President Obama's plan would keep interest rates low on student loans for more than seven million borrowers. If we don't stop them, Republicans in Congress will take away the reality of a college education for students who rely on loans, Pell Grants, and other federal assistance.

As President Obama said, "Higher education can't be a luxury -- it is an economic imperative that every family in America should be able to afford,"

Smart, hard-working young Americans across the country deserve the chance at a higher education without being crippled by student loan debt afterward. We're calling on every student, every young person, and anyone who cares about the students in their lives to make your voices heard so we can stop the Republicans before it's too late.

You can call your Representative at (202) 224-3121 and tell them to stand up for students and pass the President's plan, or if you're on Twitter, tweet at your Member of Congress with the hashtag #DontDoubleMyRate.