Trump-Backed Cuts Lead to Major Layoffs at U.S. Department of Education

The Trump administration has initiated significant staff reductions at the U.S. Department of Education, leading to the termination of nearly half of its employees. This move aligns with President Trump's long-standing criticism of the department, which he has described as ineffective and burdensome.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced on Tuesday that the department would begin a reduction in workforce, affecting approximately 50% of its staff. At the time of Trump's inauguration, the department employed around 4,100 individuals. Reports indicate that nearly 600 employees have opted for early retirement in recent weeks, while an additional 1,300 will be placed on administrative leave with pay until June.

McMahon's statement highlighted that all divisions within the department would experience cuts, with some undergoing substantial restructuring to improve services for students, parents, educators, and taxpayers. Despite these layoffs, essential programs mandated by law, including student loans and funding for students with special needs, will continue.

This reduction appears to be a preliminary step towards the potential dissolution of the federal agency. During his campaign, Trump pledged to eliminate the Department of Education, advocating for a decentralized approach to education that would transfer authority to individual states.

Traditionally, the federal government plays a limited role in education, contributing only about 13% of funding for primary and secondary schools, with the majority provided by state and local sources. However, federal funding is crucial for underfunded schools and for students with special needs, and the government has historically been instrumental in enforcing civil rights protections for students.

Following the election, Trump directed McMahon to take actions toward abolishing the department. Reports suggest that Trump intends to sign an executive order to facilitate this dissolution. A draft seen by sources instructs McMahon to undertake necessary measures to enable the closure, aiming to operate within the broadest legal parameters.

According to the draft, the existing federal oversight of the education system through various programs and bureaucratic entities has failed to meet the needs of children, teachers, and families. Trump has characterized the department as a significant failure and a haven for what he describes as "radicals and Marxists."

Established by Congress in 1979, the Department of Education would likely require legislative approval for its abolition, and it could face numerous lawsuits challenging any attempt to dissolve it.