Trump blasts Department of Education as ‘con job,’ says he wants it closed ‘immediately’

Trump Calls for Immediate Closure of the Department of Education

President Donald Trump has recently made headlines by lambasting the Department of Education (DOE), referring to it as a "con job." His criticism stems from the United States’ ranking in global education. Despite being ranked 40th internationally, the U.S. tops the list in spending per pupil. Trump emphasized this disparity, suggesting that the DOE’s inefficiency and misuse of funds warrant its immediate closure. He pointed out that while the U.S. was previously ranked 38th, it has since dropped to 40th, indicating a regressing educational performance despite increased expenditures.

Significant Cuts to DEI Funding at the DOE

In response to perceived inefficiencies, Trump’s administration, through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has implemented substantial budget cuts within the DOE. A notable reduction includes $101 million allocated to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training programs. These funds were intended to help educators address oppression and privilege in classrooms. Musk criticized this spending, arguing that taxpayer money was being misused. The cuts are part of a broader initiative to eliminate wasteful government expenditures, reflecting Trump’s commitment to financial prudence and curriculum reform.

Executive Orders Targeting Education and School Choice

Trump has signed executive orders aimed at reshaping education policies, particularly targeting critical race theory (CRT) and promoting school choice. These orders direct federal funding away from schools teaching CRT, which Trump deems inappropriate. Additionally, they aim to empower families by expanding access to alternative educational options. These actions align with Trump’s campaign promises to curtail controversial content in schools and highlight his administration’s focus on educational reform amidst declining test scores.

Parental Backlash and Controversy Over CRT

The inclusion of CRT and other contentious topics in school curricula has sparked significant parental outcry. School board meetings across the nation have become forums for debate, with parents expressing concerns about the impact of such teachings on their children. Trump and supporters argue that CRT and related ideologies promote division and inappropriate content, necessitating federal intervention to protect students and uphold traditional values.

Potential Dismantling of the DOE

Rumors about dismantling the DOE have gained traction, following a report by The Wall Street Journal suggesting that Trump administration officials are considering such a move. This potential restructuring reflects broader Republican critiques of federal education oversight, advocating for greater state and local control. While the report’s specifics are yet to be confirmed, it signals a possible significant shift in the federal role in education, aligning with Trump’s broader agenda of reducing government size and empowering local authorities.

Conclusion: A Shift in Education Policy

President Trump’s recent actions and rhetoric indicate a concerted effort to reform the U.S. education system, focusing on financial accountability, curriculum oversight, and parental rights. The critique of the DOE, cuts to DEI funding, executive orders on CRT, and potential DOE dismantling all reflect a move towards conservative education policies. These changes aim to address declining academic performance and contentious curriculum content, though they also spark debate about federal involvement in education and the balance between national standards and local control. Trump’s approach, while controversial, underscores his administration’s commitment to reshaping education priorities in line with conservative values.