Michigan Democrats Sound Alarm on Trump’s Threats to the Education Department: What You Need to Know

In Michigan, some Democratic lawmakers are voicing worries about proposals to cut back the U.S. Department of Education. Both President Donald Trump and certain Republicans want to eliminate the department entirely. They believe that education should be managed more by state and local governments.

Linda McMahon, Trump’s choice for Education Secretary, is currently under review by the U.S. Senate. This department plays a crucial role. It manages student aid, collects data, and helps fund schools across the country.

State Senator Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) highlighted the potential fallout for Michigan. “Forty-one percent of our state’s budget relies on federal funds. Losing the Education Department could mean a hit of about $2.5 billion,” she explained. This funding is vital, especially for special needs programs.

McMorrow added that without this revenue, the state’s rainy day fund would be wiped out. Any cuts would have to pass through Congress first. Recently, some lawmakers reintroduced bills aimed at eliminating the department altogether. The Trump administration has previously made moves to reduce funding for schools that promote inclusive practices.

Some of these funding cuts have already been challenged in court. At a recent press conference, lawmakers expressed uncertainty about what actions Michigan’s attorney general might take against further changes.

State Representative Kelly Breen (D-Novi) has been proactive, reaching out to federal lawmakers to prevent these cuts. “There’s only so much they can do,” she noted, acknowledging a mix of efforts from both Democratic and Republican Congress members to push back against the proposed changes.

Breen emphasized the importance of federal education funding for Michigan, as it supports essential services like school safety and special needs programs. Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth) also pointed out that this funding is critical for providing universal free school lunches.

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