Special Poll
President Trump signed an executive order on Thursday aimed at advancing his long-held goal of dismantling the Department of Education. While fully eliminating the department would require congressional approval, Trump directed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take all possible steps to facilitate its closure.
“Today, we take a very historic action that was 45 years in the making,” Trump declared at a signing ceremony held in the East Room of the White House, where several school-age children sat at classroom desks. “I will sign an executive order to begin eliminating the federal Department of Education.”
Trump reassured that certain federal education programs, such as Pell Grants, Title I funding, and programs for students with disabilities, would remain intact and be redistributed to other agencies. “The department’s useful functions … will be preserved, fully preserved,” he emphasized. However, he made it clear that his administration would work swiftly to dismantle the rest of the department. “We’re going to shut it down and shut it down as quickly as possible,” he added.
The event was attended by key Republican lawmakers and governors, including Rep. Virginia Foxx (N.C.), Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Despite the administration’s reassurances, Trump’s decision has sparked significant backlash among his base, particularly in rural and working-class communities that heavily rely on federal education funding. Many Trump supporters have expressed frustration and concern, fearing that shifting control entirely to the states could lead to funding cuts and inconsistent education policies. The move is also unpopular with parents and educators who see the Department of Education as essential in providing resources and setting national standards for schools.
Polls and conservative commentators have already pointed out that this decision could hurt Trump’s popularity, especially among suburban voters and working-class families who supported him in both of his previous campaigns. Some Republican lawmakers have privately warned that dismantling the department without a clear alternative could alienate voters ahead of the 2026 midterms and even the 2028 presidential race.
The White House attempted to ease concerns, emphasizing that critical education functions mandated by Congress would continue. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated earlier Thursday that the department would still oversee student loans and Pell Grants, though on a much smaller scale.
“The Department of Education will be much smaller than it is today. As you know, the president’s executive order directed Linda McMahon to greatly minimize the agency. So, when it comes to student loans and Pell Grants, those will still be run out of the Department of Education,” Leavitt said.
Despite these assurances, the executive order has deepened divisions within the Republican Party, as some lawmakers worry about the political consequences of the move. As Trump moves forward with one of his most controversial domestic policies, his ability to maintain support from his base will be put to the test.