WASHINGTON: President Trump ordered Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin closing the Education Department, a move requiring congressional approval.
Trump signed the order in the White House, surrounded by schoolchildren, calling it a step toward eliminating federal oversight.
The administration cites low student test scores as justification for shutting down the department entirely.
Trump vowed to close the agency quickly, though legal and political battles could delay the process.
The Education Department handles federal student loans, civil rights enforcement, and programs for students with disabilities.
Legal Challenges
Congress must approve any closure since the department was established by law.
No modern president has attempted to dismantle a federal agency without congressional approval.
Trump’s administration has already reduced the department’s workforce by more than half.
Over $600 million in federal education grants have been eliminated under his administration.
Cuts have particularly impacted the Office for Civil Rights, which ensures equal educational opportunities.
Contradictory Directives
Trump’s order asks McMahon to both close the agency and follow federal law.
It does not explain how to balance these conflicting directives.
Despite the planned closure, student loans and federal education grants will continue.
Special education and funding for low-income schools will still be provided.
Some Education Department responsibilities may be transferred to other government agencies.
Public Reactions
Many education advocates condemned the order, calling it political posturing.
Ted Mitchell, from the American Council on Education, dismissed the move as a stunt.
Legal experts say Trump’s order could violate the separation of powers clause.
Critics may use a 2024 Supreme Court ruling to challenge Trump’s authority.
The American Federation of Teachers pledged to file lawsuits to block the closure.
Political Debate
Republicans in Congress are divided over supporting the closure.
Surveys show nearly two-thirds of Americans oppose shutting down the department.
Trump claims the goal is to return education control to states.
Representative Jim Jordan argues that Republicans support giving parents school choice.
Senator Bill Cassidy plans to introduce legislation to officially dismantle the department.
Congressional Struggles
Trump hopes Congress will approve the closure, but Democratic opposition is strong.
Even some Republicans previously voted against eliminating the department.
Critics warn the closure could weaken federal oversight of student rights.
Keri Rodrigues argues vulnerable students will suffer without federal protections.
Representative Bobby Scott strongly opposes the order, citing Trump’s past remarks on education.
Longstanding Debate
Republicans have long criticized the department as bureaucratic and inefficient.
Trump’s order amplifies claims that federal education spending has failed students.
Some believe the department’s focus on regulations has burdened schools and parents.
Experts argue that closing the department won’t fix educational challenges.
Frederick Hess warns the debate ignores real education policy problems.
