Trump Signs EO to Begin Dismantling U.S. Education Department

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order initiating the process of dismantling the Department of Education, marking a significant step toward fulfilling his long-standing pledge to reduce federal oversight in education.

The move, announced Thursday at a White House ceremony, tasks Education Secretary Linda McMahon with overseeing the department's downsizing and transferring authority back to states.

Trump described the decision as a necessary shift to improve educational outcomes. “We’re going to eliminate it, and everybody knows it’s right,” he stated, citing stagnant student performance despite high federal spending.

He added, “We want to return our students to the states.” Flanked by schoolchildren during the event, Trump asked them, “Should I do this?” before signing the order.

While the executive order sets the stage for restructuring, fully abolishing the department requires Congressional approval. Established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, dissolving the agency would need 60 Senate votes to overcome filibusters—a challenging feat given Republican control of only 53 seats. Trump expressed optimism that Democrats might support the measure but acknowledged potential resistance.

Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, pledged to introduce legislation to advance Trump’s goal.

However, Democratic leaders have strongly opposed the move. Representative Bobby Scott (D-Va.) called it “reckless,” warning it could jeopardize support for low-income students, students with disabilities, and rural communities.

Despite plans to shrink the department significantly, certain critical functions will remain under federal oversight. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that responsibilities such as enforcing civil rights laws, managing student loans, and administering Pell grants would continue. The funding for low-income school districts and programs for students with disabilities will also be preserved.

Linda McMahon defended the decision by emphasizing that education policy should originate at state levels. “The Department of Education doesn’t educate anyone; it provides funding so states can innovate,” she explained. However, critics argue that states may lack the resources and infrastructure needed for such a transition.

The executive order is already facing legal opposition from labor and civil rights groups. NAACP President Derrick Johnson labeled the move “unconstitutional,” stating that only Congress can abolish an executive agency.

Becky Pringle of the National Education Association warned that dismantling the department could lead to larger class sizes, reduced access to higher education, and weakened protections for vulnerable students.

Polling data suggests public sentiment is largely against eliminating the department. A recent Quinnipiac University survey found 60% of registered voters oppose the plan, with only 33% in favor.

The decision aligns with conservative calls to reduce federal bureaucracy but has sparked widespread debate over its implications for educational equity.

Critics contend that privatizing education could disproportionately benefit affluent families while leaving disadvantaged communities behind.

As Trump moves forward with this controversial initiative, its success hinges on overcoming legislative hurdles and addressing mounting concerns from educators and advocacy groups nationwide.