Proposed cuts to the federal Head Start program are drawing criticism from advocates and lawmakers who warn they could reduce funding and weaken standards for early childhood education.

The Trump administration's budget proposal calls for significant reductions to the program, which serves young children and families across the country.

Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal criticized the plan and pledged to fight it, saying, "The Trump administration is not only slashing the funding for Head Start programs in Connecticut and elsewhere but also the quality standards, and that's why I'm going to fight it, to make sure that kids get what they deserve."

The administration has said the cuts are part of a push for local control, administrative efficiency and expanded capacity.