President Trump signed an executive order Thursday instructing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take all legal steps to begin dismantling the U.S. Department of Education and shift authority over education back to states and local governments.
While the department cannot be fully eliminated without congressional approval, Trump said, “We’re going to shut it down and shut it down as quickly as possible.” The order comes weeks after McMahon laid off over 1,300 employees, reducing the department’s staff to just over 2,000.
The administration argues the department has spent over $3 trillion since 1979 with little improvement in student outcomes. Federal education responsibilities like Pell Grants and Title I funding will continue through other agencies.
Democrats, teachers’ unions, and education advocates condemned the move. Legal challenges are expected. Polling shows that 63% of Americans oppose eliminating the department.
Education Secretary McMahon called the transition “one final, unforgettable public service.” The order follows Trump’s campaign promises and aligns with GOP proposals, though Senate approval remains unlikely.
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