Trump Administration Appeals to SCOTUS for Approval of Education Department Budget Cuts

The Trump administration is pushing the U.S. Supreme Court to allow extensive staff cuts at the Department of Education. Solicitor General D. John Sauer made the request as the department faces a legal hold on layoffs after a Massachusetts federal judge ruled against them last month.

This legal battle stems from a May 22 injunction by Judge Myong J. Joun. He ordered the administration to keep around 1,400 employees who were informed they were losing their jobs. Currently, these employees remain on paid leave until June 9, but their future is uncertain if the cuts are allowed. Many others have already opted for voluntary buyouts, which could reduce the department’s workforce significantly.

Judge Joun emphasized that a department with insufficient staff cannot function effectively, stating, "This court cannot be asked to cover its eyes while the Department’s employees are continuously fired." The judge also blocked efforts to shift key programs, like federal student loans, to other agencies.

The First Circuit Court backed Joun’s decision, noting that deep cuts would impede the department’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities. In contrast, Sauer argues that the cuts aim to streamline operations and claims that only Congress has the authority to eliminate the department entirely.

A recent survey from The Pew Research Center found that 61% of Americans support maintaining the Department of Education, emphasizing its role in ensuring educational standards across the country. This public sentiment highlights concerns about the potential impact of staffing reductions on educational quality and access.

The ongoing case includes 20 states and various educational organizations opposing the cuts. As the situation unfolds, it raises critical questions about educational funding and administrative power in the U.S.

For a deeper look into the implications of these staffing changes, you can refer to the original ruling in the court document.

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