GOP Supports Trump’s Education Plan
Former President Donald Trump’s proposal to abolish the Department of Education is resonating with Republican candidates across the nation, including those in critical House and Senate races. Many GOP members argue that eliminating this federal agency could lead to significant cost savings and restore educational control to state and local authorities.
Eric Hovde, a Republican Senate candidate from Wisconsin, recently described the Department of Education as “one of the worst monstrosities ever created.” In an interview, he stated, “If I make it to the U.S. Senate, one of my key priorities will be advocating for its closure. We can save a lot of taxpayer money and improve education in America by shutting it down for good.”
In Ohio, another Republican Senate hopeful, Bernie Moreno, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to dismantle ineffective agencies like the Department of Education. He proposed reallocating those funds directly to the states, arguing that local governance would better serve the educational needs of communities.
Betsy DeVos, former Secretary of Education under Trump, has also expressed willingness to return to public service with the mission of closing the department, reinforcing the Republican commitment to reforming education.
However, this proposal has its detractors. Critics, including Democratic Senator Patty Murray from Washington, warn that such a move could jeopardize students’ education and disrupt essential federal support systems. She noted that while the idea may sound extreme, a significant portion of the Republican party is serious about pursuing it, potentially leading to chaos for families reliant on federal education programs.
To abolish the Department of Education, Congress would need to act. A recent vote in the House to eliminate the agency fell short, with 161 in favor but 60 Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. This indicates a division within the party, highlighting the complexities of educational reform in America.
