AFPI Supercharges Education Policy Team with National Powerhouses Max Eden & James Paul

Washington D.C.—The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is delighted to announce the addition of two of the nation’s most influential education policy leaders: Max Eden and James Paul. Their arrival cements AFPI’s role as the preeminent force shaping the future of American education through bold, student-centered reforms.

“AFPI is laser-focused on restoring excellence and liberty to America’s education system,” said Erika Donalds, AFPI Chair of Education Opportunity and national leader in education freedom. “With Max and James, we’re adding two warriors for education opportunity and academic excellence—leaders who understand both the policy battlefield and the power of parents. We’re not just ready to reform the system—we’re ready to rebuild it for the people it serves: American families.”

Max Eden, a nationally respected education scholar, most recently served on the Domestic Policy Council in the White House. With more than a decade of experience in education research and policy development, Eden is well known for his ability to translate ideas into action. As Director of Federal Education Policy, he will play a central role in AFPI’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, empower states and parents, and shape common sense policies that reflect the values of American families across the nation.

James Paul joins AFPI with over a decade of practical implementation and principled leadership in education policy. Paul served as the inaugural Executive Director of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board, and has extensive experience in academic research, including debunking Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs in schools, school choice, and parental rights. As Director of State Education Policy, Paul will drive state-level victories that expand educational freedom and empower American families.

“President Trump’s vision for education—rooted in parental empowerment and educational excellence—is the foundation of a new Golden Age,” said Max Eden. “After serving in his White House, I am honored to join AFPI and work alongside champions like Linda McMahon, Erika Donalds, and others to put parents back in charge and education back where it belongs: in the hands of the people.”

“I’m honored to join the America First Policy Institute and build on the many successes AFPI has made to empower parents with educational options that reflect their values,” said James Paul. “I look forward to advancing policies that expand educational freedom, shifting power away from bureaucracies and toward families.”

The addition of Eden and Paul positions AFPI as the undisputed leader in education policy reform at every level of government. With unmatched expertise and influential national leaders, AFPI is advancing a bold, America First vision for education—one where parents are empowered, excellence is expected, and students come first.