Trump Moves to Initiate Closure of U.S. Education Department

In a significant political development, President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Education Department, according to information from a White House official. This action is seen as a continuation of Trump's longstanding commitment to eliminate an agency that has faced criticism from conservative circles. The announcement is set to take place on Thursday.

Trump has consistently criticized the Education Department, labeling it as a source of inefficiency and a bastion of liberal ideology. However, the complete closure of the department may require congressional approval, as it was established by legislation in 1979. A fact sheet released by the White House indicates that the executive order will instruct Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to undertake necessary actions to facilitate the department's closure and transfer educational authority back to the states, while ensuring continued access to essential services and programs for Americans.

Under Trump's administration, the Education Department has already experienced substantial reductions in its workforce, with reports indicating a cut of around 50%. Additionally, significant funding reductions have been implemented within the Office for Civil Rights and the Institute of Education Sciences, which is responsible for collecting data on the nation's educational performance.

Critics of the proposed closure, including advocates for public education, argue that dismantling the Education Department would exacerbate existing inequalities in the American education system. A representative from the National Parents Union expressed concern, stating that such actions would undermine the chances of millions of students to receive equitable educational opportunities.

While the exact functions and responsibilities that might be reassigned or eliminated have not been clearly outlined by the White House, Secretary McMahon has previously indicated a commitment to preserving key initiatives, such as Title I funding for low-income schools and Pell Grants for economically disadvantaged college students. The administration aims to create a more efficient Department of Education, according to McMahon's statements during her confirmation hearing.

The Education Department plays a crucial role in distributing billions of dollars annually to educational institutions and managing a substantial portfolio of federal student loans, which totals around $1.6 trillion. Moreover, the department oversees various aid programs that support students, including those from low-income backgrounds and homeless students.

Federal funding, while constituting a relatively small portion--approximately 14%--of public school budgets, is often vital for supplementary programs aimed at supporting vulnerable student populations. The proposed closure could significantly impact these initiatives.

Historically, Republicans have advocated for the closure of the Education Department, arguing that it misuses taxpayer funds and overreaches into areas that should be managed by local authorities. This sentiment has gained traction recently, particularly among conservative parent groups seeking greater control over educational content and policies.

In his campaign platform, Trump vowed to eliminate the Education Department and return educational governance to state and local jurisdictions, framing the department as a hub for what he considers radical ideologies.

Despite these efforts, some of Trump's supporters have raised questions about the feasibility of closing the agency without congressional action. In 2023, a proposed amendment to shut down the department was met with opposition from a substantial number of Republicans, indicating potential political hurdles ahead.

During his first term, former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos attempted to significantly cut the department's budget and sought to consolidate K-12 funding into block grants, which would grant states more flexibility in spending. This proposal faced considerable resistance, even from within the Republican Party.