Governors are putting early childhood education ahead of partisanship

On issue after issue, red states and blue states are pulling in different directions. But as 36 states prepare for gubernatorial elections this year, there is one issue where governors from across the political spectrum are agreeing: It is time to invest in early education and care and fix the broken government systems that have been holding back providers and families.

Why is this happening? Because governors know that access to quality, affordable childcare matters to families everywhere. For the kids, it means a great place to play, learn and grow, setting them up for long-term success. For parents, it means the chance to stay in the workforce and advance economically.

But for millions of families right now, high-quality early education and care is out of reach. In many areas there aren’t enough services to reach all families with young children, and in too many cases what services are available aren’t affordable or accessible. That’s why state funding and policy are so important, and it’s why governors of both parties have made it a part of their platforms.

Look across the country and you’ll see governors leading the way. In Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp (R) recently celebrated the state’s recognition for the highest-quality universal preschool program. In California and Colorado, Govs. Gavin Newsom (D) and Jared Polis (D) supported the creation of new........

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