President Donald Trump defended his administration’s decision to reduce the U.S. Department of Education’s staff by half, citing the department’s data on the country’s lower academic rankings compared to others. Trump, speaking at the White House, supported Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s efforts and reiterated his aim to shift oversight of academic efforts from federal to state leaders. Expressing concerns about students in other countries outperforming those in the U.S., Trump stated during a meeting with Ireland’s Prime Minister that his dream is to transfer the Department of Education to the states for more localized control. The timing of the workforce cuts coincides with an anticipated executive order from Trump to dismantle the agency. McMahon also backs the reduction in the department’s workforce, emphasizing a focus on efficiency and directing resources towards students, parents, and teachers. Opposition to the president and secretary’s plan comes from Democrats, teacher unions, and activists who believe federal support for students is essential, while conservative parent groups and others endorse state oversight of education.
