Experts Discuss Trump’s Path to Eliminating the Department of Education

As former President Donald Trump weighs his options to fulfill his longstanding campaign promise of dissolving the Department of Education (DOE), experts have provided insights into the potential process and challenges he may encounter.

Trump’s Vision for the Department of Education

Jonathan Butcher, the Will Skillman Senior Research Fellow in Education Policy at The Heritage Foundation, shared his thoughts on Trump’s plans. He stated, “The administration is right to push to eliminate the ineffective and unpopular Department of Education.” Recently, reports indicated that Trump officials are considering an executive order to propose the agency’s elimination.

In a campaign video from 2023, Trump asserted, “One thing I’ll be doing very early in the administration is closing up the Department of Education in Washington, DC, and sending all education work back to the states.” He plans to reevaluate the department’s future rather than simply dismantle it.

Potential Strategies for Elimination

Butcher proposed several strategies Trump could consider. He asserted, “Congress should heed the call and advance policy to eliminate most of the agency’s programs and funding while reallocating essential functions to other federal agencies.” Additionally, he mentioned that Trump could declare the DOE’s powers unconstitutional, seeking support from the Department of Justice.

Another option Butcher suggested involves relocating the agency outside of Washington, DC, and requiring employees to work in-office full-time. Nonetheless, this process would necessitate congressional support to dissolve union contracts.

Congressional Oversight Necessary

Despite possible executive actions, Butcher emphasized the importance of congressional involvement. He stated, “So, the best-case scenario remains that Congress considers a proposal to close the agency.” By doing so, lawmakers could create block grants for substantial spending programs like Title I, allowing states more autonomy in educational decisions.

Expert Opinions on Congressional Hurdles

Julian Epstein, a Democratic strategist and former chief counsel to the House Judiciary Committee, commented on the necessity of legislative action. He noted, “Trump will likely need an act of Congress to eliminate the department, as it is a statutorily created agency unless he can figure out how to do it through reconciliation.”

Epstein cautioned Trump against hastily dissolving the DOE, as it plays a vital role in supporting his agenda. He remarked, “The DOE is the principal enforcement agency to protect women’s sports and address issues like discrimination and bias.” Instead of complete elimination, Epstein suggested a more downsized approach while retaining some enforcement functions.

The DOE’s Historical Significance

The Department of Education was established in 1979 under then-President Jimmy Carter. Its mission includes regulating federal student aid and ensuring equal access to education. Despite ongoing calls from Republican lawmakers to dismantle the agency, Democrats argue it provides stability and enforces critical civil rights protections.

Impact and Support for Dismantling the DOE

High-profile figures, including entrepreneur Elon Musk, have previously voiced support for reducing governmental oversight in education, emphasizing fiscal conservatism. Experts have consistently pointed out that any meaningful effort to abolish the department necessitates bipartisan support.

Feasibility of Trump’s Plans

Legal experts have echoed the sentiment that complete dissolution of the DOE requires extensive congressional cooperation. Andrew Stoltmann, an attorney and law professor, stated, “President Trump does not have the ability to eliminate a federal department without congressional action.” He warned that achieving a supermajority in the Senate poses substantial challenges for Trump’s team.

The Uncertain Path Forward

With potential plans on the horizon, the timing of a Trump executive order remains unclear. Speculation suggests the administration may defer action until Trump appoints a new DOE leader, potentially Linda McMahon, although no confirmation timetable is established.

As this complex political landscape evolves, Trump’s promise to eliminate the Department of Education fuels significant discussion among political experts and stakeholders alike.

Contributors to this article include Fox News Digital’s Aubrie Spady, Liz Elkind, and Taylor Penley.