Politics
World
In a Senate confirmation hearing, Linda McMahon, President Trump's nominee for Education Secretary, outlined her vision for a significantly diminished role for the Education Department. McMahon, a sports entertainment mogul and former head of the Small Business Administration, emphasized her support for returning education responsibilities to the states, aligning with President Trump's long-held stance on reducing federal involvement in education.
McMahon's nomination comes at a time when the Education Department is facing intense scrutiny and potential restructuring. President Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to shrink or eliminate the department, which was established in 1979. While McMahon did not endorse closing the department outright, she suggested that many of its current responsibilities could be more effectively handled by state officials and other federal agencies.
"I'm really all for the president's mission, which is to return education to the states," McMahon stated. "I believe, as he does, that the best education is closest to the child." This approach reflects a broader push by conservative lawmakers and think tanks to decentralize education and promote alternatives to traditional public schools.
McMahon also addressed recent dismal results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which highlighted widespread learning loss in public schools since the COVID-19 pandemic. She echoed concerns raised by Senators Tim Scott and Katie Britt, who introduced her at the hearing, about the need for significant changes in the education system.
Priorities and Challenges
McMahon's priorities for the department include advancing school choice, a key component of President Trump's education agenda. The administration has also focused on cultural issues, such as gender, race, and sexuality, as well as combating antisemitism. Recent actions by the department have included investigations into interscholastic sports associations that allow transgender athletes to compete based on their gender identity.
However, McMahon's nomination and the proposed changes to the Education Department have been met with skepticism and concern. Over 70 employees have been placed on administrative leave due to their involvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and dozens of grants supporting research operations have been canceled. These moves have left many department employees demoralized and worried about the impact on educators.
Background and Criticisms
Linda McMahon is known for her political acumen and her long-standing relationship with President Trump. She and her husband, Vince McMahon, have been significant donors to Trump's campaigns, contributing over $20 million in 2024 alone. McMahon has also held senior roles in conservative policy organizations and receives compensation from the Trump Media & Technology Group.
Despite her political influence, McMahon's lack of experience in education has raised questions about her preparedness to lead the department. Critics point to her management of World Wrestling Entertainment, where she faced allegations of failing to address substance abuse and sexual misconduct. McMahon has vowed to divest from Trump's business and resign from her current roles if confirmed.
As the Senate considers McMahon's nomination, the future of the Education Department remains uncertain. The proposed downsizing and reorientation of its functions have sparked intense debate about the role of federal government in education and the potential consequences for the nation's schools.
Source:
Zach Montague, The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/13/us/politics/linda-mcmahon-confirmation-hearing-education-secretary.html