//Linda McMahon Faces Senate Scrutiny as Trump Pushes to Dismantle Department of Education//
Trump’s Push to Reduce the Department’s Role
Since his campaign, Trump has repeatedly called the Department of Education a “con job” and has argued that states should have full control over their schools. He has signaled plans to sign an executive order directing McMahon to submit a proposal to reduce the department’s size and scope. However, completely shutting down the agency would require congressional approval, a fact that McMahon acknowledged during the hearing.
“The department is set up by the United States Congress, and we work with Congress. It clearly cannot be shut down without it,” McMahon told senators.
Despite this, McMahon expressed support for Trump’s vision, stating, “I am all for the president’s mission of returning education back to the states.”
Critics Raise Concerns Over McMahon’s Lack of Experience
McMahon’s nomination has drawn criticism from Democratic senators, who have pointed to her lack of experience in public education. While McMahon holds a teaching certification and has served on education boards, she is best known as a businesswoman and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
Her hearing was briefly interrupted by protesters concerned about the potential dismantling of the department. In her opening statement, McMahon defended her qualifications, stating that she would work to expand school choice and empower parents in education decisions.
“If confirmed, I will work with Congress to reorientate [the department],” she said.
Legal and Political Hurdles to Shutting Down the DOE
While Trump’s rhetoric suggests a desire to eliminate the Department of Education altogether, legal experts and lawmakers have pointed out that such a move would require a significant legislative battle.
HELP Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and ranking member Bernie Sanders (I-VT) both pressed McMahon on whether she believed the department could be dismantled without congressional action. McMahon affirmed that Congress would have the final say but reiterated her commitment to restructuring the agency.
“We want to be working with Congress,” she said. “We’d like to make sure that we are presenting a plan that our senators and Congress can get on board with.”
McMahon’s History with Trump and the GOP
McMahon has been a close ally of Trump for years, previously serving as head of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during his first term. She has also been a major donor to pro-Trump causes and co-chaired his presidential transition team.
Her nomination reflects Trump’s preference for leaders with business backgrounds who prioritize deregulation and efficiency. In his nomination statement, Trump praised McMahon as a “fierce advocate” for parental rights and school choice.
Controversy Surrounding McMahon’s Past
McMahon’s nomination is not without controversy. A lawsuit filed in 2024 accused WWE officials, including her husband Vince McMahon, of ignoring allegations of sexual misconduct involving company executives. Although the McMahons have denied any wrongdoing, the case has raised concerns about McMahon’s ability to oversee investigations into misconduct within the education system.
McMahon’s attorney has called the allegations “baseless,” noting that the FBI previously investigated the claims and found no grounds for further action.
The Future of Federal Education Policy
If confirmed, McMahon would oversee a department responsible for administering crucial programs, including Title I funding for low-income students and special education services. Critics fear that Trump’s push to weaken the department could put these programs at risk.
Supporters of McMahon argue that the Department of Education has become bloated and inefficient, and they see her as a disruptor who can bring much-needed reform.
As the confirmation process continues, the debate over the federal government’s role in education is likely to intensify. Whether McMahon will be able to execute Trump’s vision—or whether Congress will block efforts to dismantle the agency—remains to be seen.
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