Trump's Push to Dismantle the U.S. Department of Education
The White House is preparing an executive order to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, a move that aligns with President Donald Trump’s long-standing campaign promise to abolish the agency. However, the president cannot unilaterally dismantle the department, as it requires congressional approval. Established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, the Education Department oversees programs serving over 50 million students in public and private schools and provides financial aid to more than 12 million postsecondary students.
Trump has repeatedly criticized the department, claiming that the U.S. spends over $1 trillion annually on education but ranks poorly globally. His proposal to shift education responsibilities to the states has been embraced by the Republican Party and Project 2025, a conservative policy initiative. However, efforts to abolish the department face significant hurdles, including the need for 60 Senate votes to overcome a filibuster, which would require bipartisan support unlikely in the current political climate.
Critics, including Becky Pringle of the National Education Association, warn that eliminating the department would harm vulnerable students, increase class sizes, cut job training programs, and reduce special education services. Despite Republican efforts dating back to President Ronald Reagan, Congress has consistently rejected such proposals. Recent bills introduced by GOP lawmakers to dismantle the department have gained limited traction.
The Trump administration has also taken steps to reduce the department’s influence, including placing dozens of staff members on paid administrative leave under the guise of eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEIA) programs. These actions have sparked concerns about potential violations of civil rights protections for federal employees.
While the executive order may target non-statutory programs, core functions like Title I funding for low-income schools and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are protected by law and cannot be altered without congressional action. Public opinion also complicates the administration’s plans, as polls show a majority of Americans, including Republicans, oppose eliminating the department.
In summary, while Trump’s executive order signals a significant push to dismantle the Education Department, its full abolition remains unlikely without congressional approval, and the move faces widespread opposition from educators, advocates, and the public.
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