On March 1, 2020, the U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Miguel CardonaĀ as the new Secretary of Education in a 64-33 vote. Before the vote was held, a number of Senators commented on Dr. Cardona’sĀ dedication to public schools, as an advocate for marginalized students, and his experience as an English language learner. They also spoke of his expressing the urgency of reopening schools and to prioritize educators for vaccinations. His leadership abilities were also praised b y lawmakers.