93.9 The Eagle – The News and Talk of Columbia, MO
(AP) Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is defending her proposal to eliminate funding to the Special Olympics.
DeVos said Wednesday that she “loves” the Special Olympics’ work but argues “the federal government cannot fund every worthy program.”
Her statement followed a social media storm stirred by athletes and celebrities who attacked her proposal and rallied for the group. Among those who spoke out were pro football player Joe Haden and Julie Foudy, former captain of the U.S. women’s soccer team.
The Education Department gave $17.6 million to the Special Olympics this year but proposed cutting that funding among $7 billion in reductions.
DeVos said the organization raises $100 million on its own every year, adding that her budget would fund other special education grants at the same levels as this year.
