Trump’s Order to Close Education Department Sparks Controversy and Confusion

In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the educational sector, former President Donald Trump issued an order to close the U.S. Department of Education, causing widespread confusion and controversy. The order, which surfaced on March 6, 2025, has left educators, students, and political analysts scrambling to understand its implications and validity.

According to reports from Politico, The New York Times, USA Today, and CNN, the abrupt announcement has raised questions about the legal authority behind such a decision. Critics argue that the move could severely impact student loan programs, with potential shifts to the Small Business Administration. Trump's allies within the Republican party have mixed reactions, with some supporting the drastic measure as a means to reduce federal oversight in education, while others express concern over the abruptness and potential disruption to millions of students.

The Department of Education, a key federal agency responsible for education policy and federal student aid, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. As the situation unfolds, the future of federal education programs hangs in the balance, leaving many to question the next steps in this unprecedented political maneuver.

• Donald Trump
• Republican Party
• Small Business Administration
• U.S. Department of Education

Detailed

‘Just do it’: Trump committed to dismantling Education Department as order looms

1 month ago

- politico

'Not their business': Trump mulls major changes to federal student loan office

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Why Do Republicans Want to Dismantle the Education Department?

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- nytimes

Trump wants to dismantle the Education Department. Here’s what it does

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- apnews

Related issues news

Was the Department of Education created by Executive Order?

Although the Department is a relative newcomer among Cabinet-level agencies, its origins goes back to 1867, when President Andrew Johnson signed legislation creating the first Department of Education.

Why was the Department of Education created?

The original Education Department was created in 1867 as a way to collect information on schools to help the country create effective school systems. The mission of the agency was expanded and revised during World War II and subsequently the civil rights movements in the 1960s and 1970s.

How was the Department of Education created?

How was the Education Department created? Congress created the current Cabinet-level department in 1979 through bipartisan legislation that consolidated various educational programs that were previously spread across different agencies. More: Jimmy Carter created the modern Education Department.