I lead a university. Higher education is failing students — Congress is right to act

Something is broken in American higher education, and this year Washington may finally do something about it.

This week, congressional leaders announced their 2026 policy priorities, and for the first time in years, higher education is near the top of the list. From student loan reform to an accreditation overhaul, lawmakers are signaling that the days of blank checks and political protection for bloated institutions may finally be over.

They’re right to act. For decades, many colleges...