Story perspectives

Education Department Faces Backlash Over Dismantling Plans

2/20/2026

Center

Education Department Dismantling

The U.S. Department of Education is moving forward with plans to dismantle its operations, despite a $79 billion budget increase from Congress.
Interagency agreements will transfer employees and programs to other departments, raising concerns about potential inefficiencies.
Critics, including former Education officials and education nonprofits, argue that the Department of Labor lacks the expertise to manage education grants.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon asserts that these partnerships will improve outcomes, but opposition warns of negative impacts on students and public trust.
A federal court previously blocked these plans, but the Supreme Court has permitted them to proceed.

Left

Congress Defies Trump

Congress largely rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed budget cuts, approving over $1.6 trillion in discretionary spending for 2026.
The Republican-controlled Congress funded key agencies, including those Trump aimed to eliminate.
The Institute of American Indian Arts will receive $13.5 million for 2026, allowing it to maintain operations.
Despite Trump's efforts to reduce government size, Congress upheld essential funding, reflecting a complex political landscape regarding austerity.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Department of Education was established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, consolidating various educational functions with a budget of $14 billion. This move aimed to enhance educational standards amid ongoing debates over federal versus state control. Current efforts to dismantle the department echo historical Republican opposition, reflecting persistent tensions in U.S. education policy that impact funding and governance.

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Education Department Dismantling

The U.S. Department of Education is moving forward with plans to dismantle its operations, despite a $79 billion budget increase from Congress.
Interagency agreements will transfer employees and programs to other departments, raising concerns about potential inefficiencies.
Critics, including former Education officials and education nonprofits, argue that the Department of Labor lacks the expertise to manage education grants.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon asserts that these partnerships will improve outcomes, but opposition warns of negative impacts on students and public trust.
A federal court previously blocked these plans, but the Supreme Court has permitted them to proceed.

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