US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aiming to dismantle the Education Department, marking a significant shift in his stance on the issue. The order, which was signed in the East Room of the White House, calls for the department to develop a plan for its own shutdown.
The event, attended by conservative activists, influencers, and six Republican governors, has been described as “odd” even by Trump himself. Despite expressing reservations about the move, he repeatedly assured onlookers that it was not as radical as it seemed.
Trump’s decision to eliminate the department comes after years of criticism from conservatives who have long advocated for its dismantling. However, only Congress can officially abolish a cabinet agency.
The order is expected to impact around 4,200 employees at the Education Department, many of whom are being let go without replacement. Trump has promised to find alternative roles for Linda McMahon, the current education secretary.
Despite his previous criticisms of federal workers, Trump acknowledged that the department’s staff are “good people.” He also expressed support for teachers and guaranteed funding for the federal Pell Grant program.
In contrast to the administration’s enthusiasm for the move, some attendees seemed less than convinced. Activists and parents expressed relief that the department would be dismantled, but many were surprised by Trump’s apparent ambivalence about the decision.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/20/us/politics/trump-education-executive-order-scene.html