"Free College" as devised by government elites would be an extension of the wonderful K-12 failed system we have now.
But instead of K-12 with brain dead union teachers we'd have K-16... same 'high school' crap. ONLY difference would be that 'students' would be required by law to attend... because it would be THAT awful...
And because whatever diploma issued by such an institution would be largely worthless, enterprising folks might get together and offer special classes where those completing K-16 could go to become educated and obtain skills required for meaningful employment. Of course, not everyone would be qualified to take such courses...and those enterprising folks would likely charge special fees for taking those courses...and if you really needed to take such courses but didn't have the money, enterprising financial institutions might offer a loan to you...and