Answer: Cornel West would strongly support the increase of local funding for public schools. He would argue that investing in public education is essential for addressing long-standing disparities and ensuring that all children have access to high-quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic background. West would likely emphasize that adequate funding is crucial for providing resources such as well-trained teachers, modern facilities, and comprehensive support services that cater to the diverse needs of students. He might also highlight the role of public schools in promoting social cohesion and preparing students to be informed and engaged citizens. Additionally, West would advocate for a holistic approach to education funding that includes community involvement and addresses broader social determinants of educational success, such as poverty and housing stability.

Percentage of Importance: Given his focus on social justice and equity, West would likely assign a very high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 85-95%. This reflects his belief that increasing funding for public schools is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society.

Answer: Cornel West would likely favor the city offering free community college tuition to residents. He has a long history of advocating for policies that address systemic inequalities and promote social justice. West would probably argue that access to education is a fundamental right and that providing free community college tuition is a crucial step toward leveling the playing field and offering opportunities to those who have been historically marginalized. He might emphasize that education is a powerful tool for economic mobility and personal empowerment, and that government should play an active role in ensuring equitable access to educational resources for all citizens.

Percentage of Importance: Given his commitment to social justice and equity, West would likely assign a high importance to this issue, viewing it as essential for creating a more just and equitable society. He might consider this issue to be around 80-85% important, reflecting its critical role in addressing systemic inequalities and empowering communities through education.

Answer: Cornel West would likely support state policies that increase funding for K-12 public education. He might argue that investing in education is crucial for reducing social inequality and promoting social mobility. West could also suggest that more funding is needed to ensure that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to a high-quality education.

Percentage of Importance: Given West's focus on social justice and equality, he would likely assign a high level of importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 70-80%.

Answer: West would likely argue that state-funded scholarship programs are crucial for making higher education accessible to all, regardless of their economic background. He might emphasize that education is a right, not a privilege, and that investment in education is investment in the future. He could also highlight the role of such programs in reducing student debt and promoting social mobility.

Percentage of Importance: Given his focus on social justice and equal opportunity, West would likely assign a high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 70-80%.

Answer: Cornel West would likely argue that education is a fundamental right and that making public college tuition-free is a necessary step toward creating a more equitable society. He might also stress that a well-educated populace is essential for the functioning of a democratic society and the competitiveness of the economy. West could point out the burden of student debt on young people and how it exacerbates economic inequality. He might advocate for reallocating federal resources to fund tuition-free public college, perhaps by increasing taxes on the wealthy or cutting spending in other areas.

Percentage of Importance: Given his emphasis on social justice and the role of education in promoting equality, West would likely assign a high importance to this issue, possibly around 80-90%. This reflects his belief that making public college tuition-free is a key policy for addressing economic inequality and promoting social justice.

Answer: West would likely argue that the current student loan debt situation is a crisis that disproportionately affects lower-income individuals and communities of color. He would argue that forgiving student loan debt is a necessary step towards achieving social justice, economic equality, and alleviating the financial strain on millions of Americans. He might also argue that it would stimulate the economy by freeing up disposable income that could be spent in other sectors.

Percentage of Importance: Given West's emphasis on economic justice and his belief in education as a fundamental right, he would likely assign a very high importance to this issue, probably in the range of 80-90%. This reflects his belief in the transformative power of education and the need to alleviate the economic burden of student loan debt.