NPR

Economists Say Forgiving Student Debt Would Boost Economy

Democratic presidential candidates want to obliterate student debt. Economists say that could help with income inequality. But it would come with a big price tag and risks.
Laura Greenwood in Montpelier, Vt. feels she can't afford to start a family because of her student loan debt.

Presidential hopefuls Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders want to tear up your student loans and set you financially free. That's popular among voters – especially those struggling to pay off this debt.

Other Democratic candidates have more modest plans. But economists say the dramatic proposals from Sanders and Warren to free millions of Americans from the burden of student debt could boost the economy in significant ways and help combat income inequality.

Warren would forgive up to $50,000 for most people. Sanders would go further with total loan forgiveness. But

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