Trump Plans to Dissolve U.S. Department of Education

Sources indicate that President Donald Trump is preparing to issue an executive order that would instruct his Secretary of Education to dismantle the Department of Education.

The draft executive order reportedly directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to pursue the department's termination by following all lawful procedures.

Congressional Hurdles

Despite the executive order, shutting down the department would necessitate legislative consent, requiring support that is unlikely to reach the necessary 60 votes in the Senate.

McMahon has acknowledged that congressional collaboration is essential to realize the President's aim of eliminating the department she currently oversees.

A Campaign Promise

This initiative is a step in fulfilling Trump's campaign promise to decentralize education authority back to state governments, according to insiders.

The draft emphasizes the need to end federal control over education, suggesting that the department's core responsibilities be transferred to state jurisdictions.

Funding and Compliance

Within the draft, McMahon is tasked with overseeing federal education funds, ensuring strict compliance with both legal and administrative directives.

Varied Reactions

Critics argue that the department offers crucial financial support and oversees laws against discrimination related to gender, race, and disabilities.

Eliminating the department could severely disrupt the support for students in need, experts warn, affecting programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Title I.

The potential closure raises the risk of jeopardizing billions of dollars in student grants and scholarships.

Executive Order Details

The draft apparently calls for ending diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that receive federal funding, citing concerns over reverse discrimination.

This draft circulates shortly after the agency launched a new website targeting discrimination complaints, aiming to enforce Title VI civil rights protections strictly.

McMahon’s Mission

As a former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, McMahon is seen by allies as a capable leader to implement significant changes needed within the department.

In an internal communication, McMahon detailed her intent to radically reform the agency, reducing bureaucracy and revamping the national education framework.

Her vision aligns with Trump's, championing state-level control of education and empowering parents to select quality schooling avenues.

Impact on Staff

The department has already placed numerous employees on leave or pressured them into early retirement as part of these changes.