President Trump's Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon will appear before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions on Thursday as the future of the agency she could potentially lead hangs in the balance. Mr. Trump has teased the possibility of closing the Department of Education, and recent actions indicate he may be moving closer to fulfilling that promise.
Since taking office, President Trump has signed several education-related executive orders and is reportedly considering executive action that would dismantle the agency. This week, Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk slashed nearly $1 billion in funding from the department and terminated contracts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"I'd like it to be closed immediately," Mr. Trump told reporters at the White House, referring to the Department of Education as a "big con job."
Before her testimony, McMahon met with at least 19 Senators, including Chair Bill Cassidy, who praised her commitment to reforming an Education Department that he believes has lost its way.
Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders joined union members in rallying against McMahon's nomination, emphasizing the importance of public education. Other Democratic Senators have questioned McMahon's qualifications and experience in education policy.
McMahon, the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment and administrator of the Small Business Administration, has stated her commitment to ensuring students have access to quality education and preparing them for a bright future.
Congressional Democrats have voiced opposition to the potential closure of the Education Department, with some House members being denied entry to the agency's headquarters. Legal and education experts suggest that congressional action would be required to fully eliminate the department.
While some Republicans have introduced legislation to abolish the Education Department and return control to the states, Democratic lawmakers are pushing back to protect vital education programs.
President Carter established the Department of Education in 1979, and it plays a crucial role in fostering student achievement, supporting disadvantaged students, enforcing non-discrimination policies, and administering federal college loan programs.
