Trump Calls for Immediate Closure of the Department of Education, Labels It a ‘Con Job’

Trump’s Critique of the Department of Education

President Donald Trump criticized the Department of Education, referring to it as a ‘con job’ while discussing his views on the U.S. education system. He expressed his discontent after reading a report that indicated the United States ranks 40th globally in education, despite being the highest spender per pupil.

Details from the Oval Office

During a press conference in the Oval Office, Trump was direct in his desire to close the Department of Education. When asked how soon he would like to see this happen, he stated without hesitation, ‘Oh, I’d like it to be closed immediately. Look at the Department of Education. It’s a big con job.’ He emphasized the disparity in spending versus ranking by saying, ‘We spend more per pupil than any other country in the world, but we’re ranked No. 40.’

Declining Educational Rankings

Trump noted that he had previously seen the U.S. ranking at 38th but recently saw it dip to 40th. His comments reflect a concerning trend he perceives in the nation’s educational performance. He compared the U.S. situation unfavorably with other countries, highlighting that China ranks within the top five, calling it ‘our primary competitor.’

Budget Cuts and Spending Reviews

The president directed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to identify wasteful expenditures. Recently, the DOE came under scrutiny and faced significant budget cuts. DOGE reported that it was cutting $881 million related to various DOE contracts, which included significant funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training programs.

Targeting DEI Training

Among the reductions, DOGE pinpointed $101 million allocated for DEI training initiatives. These programs aimed to educate educators on complex histories of oppression and to help students acknowledge various aspects of privilege and power. Musk publicly criticized the spending, stating, ‘Your tax dollars were spent on this.’

Executive Orders Impacting Education

In recent months, Trump signed multiple executive orders impacting educational policies. One of his orders removed federal funding from K-12 institutions that teach critical race theory (CRT), while another focused on enhancing school choice. These actions align with his administration’s broader agenda to reshape how education is delivered in the U.S.

Parent Backlash Against Controversy

The teaching of controversial subjects, including CRT and transgender ideology, has ignited fierce opposition from parents at school board meetings nationwide. Trump committed to cutting federal funding for educational institutions promoting what he considers inappropriate content.

A Focus on National Performance Metrics

As U.S. students show declining performance in educational assessments, Trump administration officials are reportedly considering measures to dismantle the Department of Education. This discussion arises amid increasing worries about the nation’s educational standards as highlighted by the Nation’s Report Card.

Future of Educational Policy

With Trump’s continued focus on education reform, the future of educational policy remains uncertain. Officials are exploring various options, including structural changes to the Department of Education to improve efficiency and accountability.

Fox News Digital’s Kristine Parks contributed to this report.