The student loan rate issue has been one of President Obama's favorites on the campaign trail this month. He turned to it again on Tuesday during a visit to State University of New York in Albany.

"Before they do anything else, Congress needs to keep student loan rates from doubling for students who are here and all across the country," Obama said.

The Senate did not heed those words and voted largely along party lines against starting debate on legislation drafted by the Democrats. If the stalemate continues, students will pay the price this July.

CQ Roll Call Education Reporter Lauren Smith offered analysis on Capital Insider.