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Trump Administration Considers Dismantling Education Department Amid Musk-Led Campaign for Federal Downsizing

U.S. Administration Contemplates Education Department Closure Under Trump

In recent discussions, the administration of President Donald Trump is reportedly exploring executive actions aimed at dismantling the Department of Education. This initiative is part of a broader campaign led by billionaire Elon Musk and associates, focused on reducing the size of federal agencies and curtailing the workforce within the government.

According to sources with knowledge of the internal discussions, there are considerations for issuing an executive order that would eliminate certain redundant roles within the Department of Education and potentially reassign responsibilities to various other departments. This proposed order includes plans to create legislation that could lead to the complete dissolution of the department.

This move is aligned with the Trump campaign’s overarching goal to abolish the Department of Education, minimize federal oversight in educational matters, and empower state and local authorities with greater control.

However, some officials within the administration, including members of the team designated to work with Linda McMahon, the candidate for Secretary of Education, believe it would be prudent for the White House to await Senate confirmation hearings before any action is taken. Concerns have also been raised by Trump advisors regarding the potential implications of halting federal aid, which could complicate the confirmation of Russell Foot as the new director of the Office of Management and Budget. These officials are eager to avert any scenarios that might jeopardize McMahon’s nomination.

Reports indicate that Trump’s transition team drafted an executive order prior to the administration’s assumption of office, which outlined directives for the Secretary of Education to formulate a comprehensive strategy for disbanding the department, contingent upon Congressional approval.

The Department of Education has been identified as a target by the Government Efficiency initiative, which Musk oversees, due to ongoing efforts to reform federal bureaucratic structures. However, the complete termination of the department will require legislative action from Congress, which has historically shown scant interest in this matter despite previous attempts by Trump to consolidate the Department of Education with the Department of Labor during his initial term.

Recently, Kentucky Republican Congressman Thomas Massie introduced a bill proposing the abolition of the Department of Education by 2026, arguing that federal bureaucrats should not take charge of children’s intellectual and ethical upbringing. He contends that states and localities are best positioned to develop curricula tailored to meet student needs.

Nevertheless, analysts caution that the outright elimination of the Department of Education, or even significant cuts to its funding, could be politically hazardous. A recent poll shows that 61% of voters oppose the cancellation of the department, with a majority favoring the safeguarding of educational funding and other local initiatives over tax reductions.

Established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter with backing from the National Education Association, the Department of Education is the smallest federal agency by employee count. The Government Efficiency initiative aims to optimize its operational capabilities and resources.

As the situation develops, Musk and his team are facing increasing scrutiny, with some administration members voicing concerns about the extent of their authority and its ramifications for federal agencies. Trump has indicated that Musk cannot take action without the express permission of the White House.

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