Former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has launched a new policy group, Empowering America’s Parents, to promote the Education Freedom Tax Credit, a federal scholarship program signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2024. The initiative will begin a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign targeting Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—four battleground states that have not yet opted into the program.
Key developments
- The group’s launch includes plans for a national media campaign to raise awareness of the tax credit, which allows taxpayers to donate up to $1,700 to scholarship-granting organizations in participating states and receive a federal income tax credit.
- Internal polling cited by the group indicates low public awareness of the program, with a focus on persuading suburban voters in targeted states.
Policy details and scope
The Education Freedom Tax Credit is set to launch in January 2027 and has been adopted by 30 states to date. The remaining 20 states, including the four targeted battlegrounds, have not yet implemented the program. The tax credit is designed to support K–12 tuition expenses through scholarships, though critics argue it may divert funding from public schools.
Political context and speculation
Youngkin, a potential 2028 Republican presidential candidate, has not confirmed his intentions but has previously indicated he has "more to give" politically. The launch of Empowering America’s Parents follows his departure from the Virginia governorship in January 2025. The group’s internal communications emphasize the program’s benefits without featuring Youngkin in its launch video, according to a person familiar with the planning.
Reactions and concerns
Critics of school choice programs, including some education advocates, have raised concerns that such initiatives could benefit private schools at the expense of public education funding. Proponents, however, argue the tax credit expands parental choice and provides financial flexibility for families seeking alternative educational options.
The group’s advertising campaign will focus on states led by Democratic governors, whom Youngkin’s statement described as "playing politics" by refusing to opt into the program. The campaign aims to highlight leaders who have embraced the tax credit while challenging opponents’ stances.