Ben Kamens, a House Democratic staff member earning nearly $90,000 annually, is facing widespread criticism after expressing gratitude for the cancellation of his $8,250 student loan debt through President Biden's student loan bailout program.

The backlash intensified when social media users scrutinized Kamens' posts displaying an extravagant lifestyle, considering it contradictory to his public celebration of the debt cancellation -- which some view as a vote-buying scheme -- as Fox News reports.

Kamens Faces Public Backlash on Social Media

Kamens, the communications director for Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) posted on social media about the erasure of his $8,250 student loans following the implementation of Biden's latest student loan bailout plan. His celebratory post, which included the message, "Just got a call to let me know my student debt has been canceled. This is why elections matter. Thanks @JoeBiden," quickly sparked a social media uproar, garnering nearly 20 million views.

Amid the controversy, social media users began highlighting Kamens' past social media posts that showcased his penchant for high-priced items and activities. These posts included images of extravagant dining experiences such as a seafood tower featuring lobster and oysters, and meals at the high-end Brazilian steakhouse Grill from Ipanema, among others.

Additionally, Kamens is known to be a season ticket holder for the Philadelphia Eagles, which costs him an estimated $2,692 annually. He has also posted about stays at luxurious Airbnb locations, including photos from hot tub experiences.

Critics Question Kamens' Extravagant Lifestyle

The backlash was further fueled by images of Kamens enjoying nights out with drinks and smoking cigars, particularly at Washington, D.C.'s "Nerd Prom" in April. Critics argued that his lifestyle appeared inconsistent with the need for student debt relief.

Sal Nuzzo, executive director of Consumers Defense, commented on the situation stating, "Remember this, every time you think those who went to technical and vocational schools should be paying the freight for student loans taken out by Congressional staffers eating and drinking as they mock you. Because that is what's happening, and it is absolutely disgusting."

Dominic Pino added, "Rarely is the Democratic political vision so clearly on display." Others in the media also weighed in, emphasizing the disparity between Kamens' salary and his reliance on student loan cancellation.

Rep. Marcy Kaptur Also Under Fire

As the controversy unfolded, Kamens was seen outside Rep. Kaptur's office but refused to speak to a journalist before entering the office and shutting the door firmly.

Kaptur herself has faced criticism over her stance on student loan bailouts. In a previous statement from 2022, Kaptur expressed opposition to President Biden’s student loan cancellation plan, citing constitutional concerns and the lack of congressional consultation.

"There was no consultation with Congress. The last time I checked the Constitution, you can’t impact the bottom line of the federal treasury without some bill moving through Congress. I think the president probably overreached his authority on this one. My expectation is it will go to the courts. I’m not sure how that will happen," Kaptur had said.

Re-election Campaign Adds Pressure

Kaptur's previous vote against Biden’s student debt forgiveness plan adds to the complexity as she is currently in a tight re-election race against Republican challenger Derek Merrin. Merrin criticized Kaptur's record, accusing her of being out of touch with the values of hard work and personal responsibility that he claims are fundamental to Ohio voters.

NRCC Communications Director Jack Pandol also chimed in, pointing out the median income in Kaptur's district, OH-09, is $62,000, implying that Ohioans managing their finances responsibly find it unfair that Kamens might benefit from the loan bailout while indulging in extravagant spending.

Pandol stated, "The median income in OH-09 is $62k. Ohioans who work hard, save, and pay off their own loans are priced out of brunch seafood towers."

Responses from the Political Arena

NRCC spokesman Mike Marinella supported the criticism towards Biden’s student loan forgiveness strategy, calling it a voting-buying scheme. He added that Kaptur's voting record shows her disconnection from Northwest Ohio voters' sentiments.

"It’s obvious Joe Biden’s unconstitutional student loan forgiveness sham is the easiest way for him to buy votes, but Marcy Kaptur’s voting record in support for this scheme shows just how out of touch she is with the voters of Northwest Ohio," Marinella said.

Kaptur’s opponent, Derek Merrin, echoed similar sentiments, raising concerns about the fairness of the student loan bailout. "Marcy Kaptur refuses to stand up for Ohio values of hard work and personal responsibility. Her voting record on Biden’s student loan bailout is the latest example. Northwest Ohioans that work hard every day are not responsible for paying off others student loan bills. Period," Merrin remarked.

Kamens’ social media post and the ensuing backlash underscore the ongoing debate surrounding student loan forgiveness policies and their broader implications. Fox News Digital has reached out to Kaptur’s office for comment but has yet to receive a response.

This incident highlights larger political and social tensions, as critics argue the student loan bailout benefits individuals like Kamens who exhibit high spending habits, while others view it as necessary relief.

As the discussion continues, both Rep. Kaptur's and Kamens' future actions and statements will be closely monitored, especially with the upcoming re-election race and the broader public reaction to student loan forgiveness policies.