WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) voted against the nomination of Betsy DeVos to serve as Secretary of the Department of Education. Despite Senator King’s opposition, Ms. Devos was confirmed by a vote of 51-50, with Vice President Mike Pence casting the tie breaking vote in favor.

Senator King released the following statement after the vote:

“After following her confirmation hearing closely and after a great deal of consideration, last month I concluded that I could not support Ms. DeVos because I was concerned that she wouldn’t be a strong advocate for public education, that she lacked the necessary knowledge to lead the Department, and indeed, that she was hostile to the fundamental mission of the Department.

“I continue to harbor those concerns, and in light of her confirmation, now consider it my responsibility to fight to ensure that, under her leadership, Maine public schools will be provided adequate and appropriate funding and that Maine students will be guaranteed an equal opportunity to a quality education.”

###