Trump’s Executive Order Could Eliminate Education Department Soon

WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump is anticipated to issue an executive order as early as Thursday, aimed at abolishing the U.S. Department of Education, according to sources familiar with the matter.
A draft of the order, obtained by The Wall Street Journal, instructs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department” in accordance with legal parameters.

The move is part of Trump’s broader effort to reshape the federal government based on conservative principles, closely aligning with the 900-page “Project 2025” blueprint crafted by the Heritage Foundation and other right-leaning organizations. This blueprint outlines major shifts in federal policy aimed at a conservative overhaul of government operations.

Within the first month of his second administration, Trump has already implemented several executive orders influencing various sectors, including education. McMahon has reportedly communicated a “historic final mission” for the department to her staff as they prepare for potential changes.
Despite the executive order’s implications, significant alterations to the Education Department would require congressional approval, making the feasibility of such actions uncertain.

Critics of Trump’s agenda argue that eliminating the Education Department could undermine educational standards nationwide. Supporters, however, believe that it would promote greater autonomy for states in managing education systems.
“This is exactly the work we set out to do,” said Paul Dans, a leader within the Project 2025 initiative. “We believe in reducing federal intervention in education to empower local governments and families in their decision-making.”

The response from educational advocates has been swift, with many expressing concern about the ramifications. “Abolishing the Department of Education could have dire consequences for students and educators alike,” said an official from the National Education Association. “Not only would it eliminate vital resources, but it could also exacerbate educational inequities that already exist across the nation.”

Trump’s push to dismantle various federal agencies is rooted in a philosophy that seeks to reduce what he terms “unnecessary bureaucratic oversight.” In his address to Congress last week, Trump emphasized his commitment to cutting federal spending and returning power to states and localities.

As the administration moves forward with its plans, the implications of Trump’s actions remain uncertain, particularly concerning potential legislative hurdles and public backlash. The Education Department has historically played a pivotal role in federal education policy, and its dissolution could set off an array of legal and political challenges.