Trump’s Plan to Eliminate the Education Department Faces Congressional Hurdles

Trump’s Plan to Eliminate the Education Department Faces Congressional Hurdles

President Donald Trump is preparing to initiate a significant reduction of the Department of Education through an executive order. However, to fully abolish this agency, congressional approval is essential. This plan aims to shift educational control from bureaucratic structures back to families.

Trump is anticipated to sign an order that would signify the beginning of the department’s dissolution, potentially as soon as Thursday. The goal, as indicated by a White House fact sheet, is to empower families by diminishing federal oversight in education.

If executed, this executive order would enable Trump to make substantial cuts to the department. Nevertheless, outright elimination of the agency necessitates legislation that Congress would need to pass, which revises the laws that established the department.

Historical Context of the Education Department

Founded in 1979, the Department of Education came into existence following the enactment of the Department of Education Organization Act, signed into law by former President Jimmy Carter. Over the years, Republicans have advocated for the dismantling of the department, arguing for a return to local and state control over educational decisions. Notably, former President Ronald Reagan also called for its abolition during his administration.

Legislative Efforts to Abolish the Department

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, recently reintroduced legislation aimed at dissolving the department, proposing a termination date of December 31, 2026. However, such legislative efforts require significant support.

Experts underscore that passing any bill to dismantle the department will demand a supermajority of votes in Congress. Andrew Stoltmann, a law professor and attorney, explained that Trump cannot eliminate a federal department without congressional cooperation.

Stoltmann stated that accomplishing this would involve significant political maneuvering, particularly in gaining support from Democrats in the Senate, which he views as a challenging endeavor.

Challenges in Legislative Support

Political analyst Jamie E. Wright has also pointed out potential roadblocks to achieving the president’s goal. To ensure smooth passage of the legislation, Trump needs backing from a diverse range of lawmakers. Some legislators consider the Department of Education vital for maintaining uniform national educational standards and for managing federal funding for educational initiatives.

Wright emphasized that without robust support from Congress, advancing Trump’s agenda will face formidable obstacles. The situation requires careful navigation of political alliances and a clear articulation of the plan’s benefits.

Trump’s Commitment to Education Reform

Throughout his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has vocalized his commitment to closing the Department of Education during his second term. To facilitate this process, he has appointed Education Secretary Linda McMahon, indicating that her role will be to expedite efforts to dissolve the department.

During her confirmation hearing in February, McMahon acknowledged the necessity of congressional cooperation to accomplish the administration’s goals related to the department’s future.

She stated that their aim is to collaborate with Congress to create a framework that both lawmakers and educational stakeholders will support. McMahon expressed a desire to focus on restructuring the department to improve its functionality while ensuring necessary legislative backing.

Recent Actions and Budgetary Cuts

The Trump administration has already begun measures to scale back the Department of Education’s influence. This includes terminating hundreds of millions of dollars in grants that fund diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within educational institutions. The administration has also moved to lay off nearly half of the department’s workforce as part of this restructuring effort.

According to Savannah Newhouse, a spokesperson for the Department of Education, Trump’s overarching objective is to minimize federal bureaucracy and return educational authority to state and local governments. She asserted that decisions about education funding and oversight should be as close to students as possible.

Clarifying Misconceptions About the Department

Newhouse also clarified common misconceptions regarding the department’s role, explaining that it does not directly control school curricula, set teacher salaries, determine eligibility for student aid, operate schools, or serve as the primary funding source for education institutions. Most of these responsibilities fall under state jurisdiction.

Awaiting Congressional Response

As of now, the Department of Education is working through these substantial changes while Trump continues to advocate for a significant shift in the education landscape of the country. Fox News Digital has reached out to the department for comment regarding additional inquiries but has yet to receive a response.

Will Trump’s Plan Take Shape?

The future of Trump’s ambitious plan remains uncertain, hinging largely on the political climate and the ability to forge bipartisan support. With various interests at play, the conversation surrounding education reform will continue to be a focal point for the administration as it seeks to reshape the educational framework of the nation.