Linda McMahon is in a tough spot as she seeks Senate approval to lead the Department of Education. President Donald Trump wants her to shut down this agency, claiming it is full of “radicals” and “Marxists.” If Trump gets his way, McMahon would be the last person to hold this position.
The White House is considering a plan to significantly reduce the Department of Education’s influence while asking Congress to eliminate it entirely. During a recent news conference, Trump made it clear he wants McMahon to “put herself out of a job.” However, he hasn’t yet signed an official order to shut down the agency. Still, this topic will likely dominate her Senate hearing.
Democrats are preparing tough questions for McMahon about her willingness to follow Trump’s plan, which many believe could harm public education. While Trump has not confirmed whether he would protect the core functions of the department, it plays an important role in funding schools, managing a massive student loan program, and upholding civil rights in education.
In a letter addressed to McMahon, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim have pointed out that she will need to clarify her stance on Trump’s proposals. They are particularly interested in her plans for the department’s crucial student loan services and civil rights office.
McMahon has strong ties to Trump; she was the CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment and has supported his campaigns financially. She previously served as head of the Small Business Administration during his first term. However, her background in education is limited compared to most previous secretaries. Aside from a brief tenure on Connecticut’s Board of Education, she is a trustee at Sacred Heart University and has advocated for expanded school choice and apprenticeship programs.
In her early career, McMahon aspired to be a teacher but ended up working at a law firm before launching WWE with her husband. Critics, including the National Education Association, argue against her appointment, claiming it could undermine educational standards and protections.
On the other hand, some Republicans believe her business experience makes her a strong candidate to reform the education system. Senator Bill Cassidy, who leads the education committee, expressed confidence in her ability to shift power back to parents and revitalize the agency.
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Education costs, Politics, Washington news, General news, Education, Article, 118768885
