Former WWE chief Linda McMahon is stepping into a new arena—education policy. The U.S. Senate confirmed McMahon as the education secretary in Donald Trump’s administration, aligning her with his controversial push to dismantle the federal Department of Education. The move underscores Trump’s broader agenda to decentralize education policy and shift control to state governments.
A Cabinet Pick With an Unconventional Background
McMahon’s confirmation marks a sharp departure from traditional picks for the education post. Unlike past secretaries with backgrounds in academia or public policy, McMahon made her name in the wrestling business, helping turn WWE into a billion-dollar empire alongside her husband, Vince McMahon.
Her prior government experience came as Trump’s Small Business Administration chief from 2017 to 2019. Now, she finds herself in charge of the nation’s education policies, despite having no direct experience in the field.
One thing is clear—her philosophy aligns with Trump’s. He has long criticized the federal government’s role in education, arguing that states should have greater autonomy in determining school policies and funding. McMahon has echoed those sentiments, backing the idea of limiting federal oversight.
What Trump Wants—And What It Means for Schools
Trump made no secret of his plans for the Education Department. Throughout his campaign, he vowed to slash its powers or dismantle it entirely. His argument? The federal government shouldn’t dictate what happens in schools across the country.
• State control: Trump wants states to have more say in curricula, funding, and policies, reducing federal mandates. • School choice expansion: Expect more emphasis on vouchers, charter schools, and alternative education options. • Reduced regulation: Cutting bureaucratic oversight in areas like student loans and special education funding.
During her confirmation hearings, McMahon was pressed on whether she would indeed “put herself out of a job” as Trump had suggested in a past conversation. While she did not explicitly confirm a plan to dissolve the department, she acknowledged the president’s vision and promised to push policies that align with it.
Mixed Reactions: Praise from Conservatives, Concern from Educators
McMahon’s appointment has drawn strong reactions from both supporters and critics. Those in favor see her as a business-minded leader who could streamline inefficiencies in the education system.
However, her critics argue that appointing someone with no formal education experience sends the wrong message. Teachers’ unions and education policy experts warn that weakening federal oversight could lead to inconsistencies in education quality across states.
“Public education is already facing immense challenges—cuts to federal funding will only widen the gaps,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. “We need an education secretary who strengthens schools, not one who dismantles oversight.”
On the other hand, conservative groups have cheered the appointment. “Parents and states should be the ones making decisions about their kids’ education, not bureaucrats in Washington,” said a spokesperson from the Heritage Foundation.
How Could This Change Education Policy?
The Department of Education oversees billions in federal funding, including student loans, special education grants, and assistance for low-income schools. While Trump may push for its reduction, fully dissolving the department would require congressional approval, making it an uphill battle.
Some immediate areas where changes could be expected:
| Policy Area | Potential Change Under McMahon |
|---|---|
| Federal Funding | Possible cuts or shifts to block grants for states |
| Student Loans | More privatization, less federal involvement |
| School Choice | Increased support for vouchers and charter schools |
| Special Education | Potential reduction in federal enforcement |
It remains to be seen how much McMahon can achieve within her tenure, but if Trump stays committed to his plans, education policy could see major shifts over the next few years.
