President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order to dismantle the U.S. Education Department, fulfilling a long-standing promise to eliminate the agency, which has been criticized by conservatives. While Trump has decried the department as wasteful and liberal, Congress would likely need to act to fully dismantle it.
The order directs Secretary Linda McMahon to facilitate the closure of the department, returning education authority to the states while ensuring the continuity of essential services. Criticizers argue that eliminating the agency would harm students, particularly those from vulnerable communities.
The department’s workforce has already been significantly reduced under Trump’s administration, with cuts to various programs and offices. Supporters of the order believe it will empower states to customize education, while opponents argue it will disproportionately impact low-income, minority, and disabled students.
The White House has not specified which functions of the department could be eliminated or transferred to other agencies. Meanwhile, federal funding plays a significant role in supporting schools and colleges, and some conservatives have advocated for block grants to provide states more autonomy.
Over the years, Republicans have pushed for the closure of the Education Department, citing federal overreach and inefficiency. Trump’s administration has also utilized the department to promote certain aspects of his agenda, such as targeting schools that do not align with his policies.
While Trump claims to be returning education to the states, critics argue that his actions are increasing federal control over local schools. The legality and political popularity of the order remain uncertain, with questions about its impact on education and civil rights enforcement.
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