President Donald Trump is set to take action to reduce the power of the Department of Education, a move aimed at limiting federal control over the nation’s schools. According to reports, an executive order will soon be issued directing the agency to downsize and transfer some of its responsibilities elsewhere.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has been reviewing the agency’s structure for cost-cutting opportunities. Some members of the group have already accessed internal Education Department systems as part of their evaluation.
While completely eliminating the department would require congressional approval, the Trump administration is focused on reducing its scope through executive action. The plan would shift education policy decisions away from Washington and give more authority to states.
Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan, chairman of the House Education Committee, has stated that while closing the department may be difficult, efforts to reduce its influence remain a priority. A 2023 vote to abolish the agency failed, making it unlikely that such a measure would succeed in the near future.
The executive order’s timing is unclear, with some administration officials suggesting that Trump may wait until Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon is confirmed before taking further action. So far, no confirmation hearing has been scheduled.
The Trump administration’s efforts to scale back the Department of Education are part of a broader plan to streamline government agencies. The push to limit federal intervention in education aligns with Trump’s larger strategy to return more power to states and reduce wasteful spending in Washington.
