Hundreds gather for Merkley, Bonamici town hall

As a senior member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, Bonamici said education is one of her top priorities. The congresswoman recently introduced a resolution advocating for the protection of local public schools and condemning attempts to defund public education.

She added that she sees civil rights as a central part of the conversation — especially when it comes to defending programs like Title I and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

“Without the federal dollars in the K-12 system, as well as the programs like TRIO, which are so important, and student aid, we would be closing the door of opportunity to many people,” Bonamici said. “The federal role in education is all about equity of opportunity.”