Wall Street Journal: Trump to shut down Department of Education today

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US President Donald Trump, who has advocated for the abolition of the Department of Education throughout his term, has characterized the institution as a 'massive fraud network.' Having proposed a similar move during his first presidential term, Trump failed to receive the necessary support from Congress. The US press reported that this time, Trump will close the Department by issuing an executive order.

Republican Party members have long made efforts to reduce the funding and influence of the Department of Education. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, who was confirmed by the Senate on Monday, stated that she supports Trump's plan. McMahon emphasized that while abolishing the Department would require Congressional approval, federal funding for low-income school districts and students would continue.

McMahon was the former executive of World Wrestling Entertainment. Trump stated that he nominated McMahon for the position because she is a 'tenacious advocate for parental rights.'

US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR MILLIONS OF STUDENTS TO BE CUT

The Department was known to be responsible for overseeing approximately 100 thousand public schools and 34 thousand private schools in the US. However, more than 85 percent of public school budgets were covered by state and local governments. The Department provided federal grants in areas such as teacher salaries, arts programs, and infrastructure renovation for students with special needs. Millions of students in the US were benefiting from financial support programs.

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), the closure of the Department of Education could mean the cutting of tens of billions of dollars in federal aid to K-12 schools (primary and secondary schools) and university students. Sources close to the Department who spoke to the WSJ suggested that if the institution were closed, a serious void could emerge in the education system.

The Department of Education also managed a 1.6 trillion dollar student loan portfolio for university students. These loans provided critical support for millions of Americans who struggled to cover the costs of higher education.

TRUMP'S FEUD WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Government advisor Elon Musk and President Trump have previously attempted to terminate certain government programs without Congressional approval. However, the Trump administration's attempt to close a cabinet-level institution is being brought to the agenda for the first time.

During the term of former President Joe Biden, Republicans criticized the Department of Education over student loan forgiveness and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Those defending the Department stated that the existence of this institution is vital to maintaining public education standards.

In a statement made last month, the US President expressed that the Department of Education 'should be closed immediately.' Due to existing laws in the US, Trump needs to gain the support of Congress and teachers' unions to be able to close the Department.

News Source: 12punto