One of the prominent promises made by President-elect Donald Trump during his campaign was to dismantle the US Department of Education. This federal agency, created in 1979, plays a crucial role in funding public schools, managing student loans, and supporting programs for low-income students.
Trump has accused the department of “indoctrinating young people with inappropriate racial, sexual, and political material.” However, eliminating the department would require congressional approval, presenting a significant challenge for the incoming Republican president.
On his own, Trump cannot shut down the department. He would need congressional approval, likely requiring a supermajority of 60 out of 100 senators. While Republicans control the Senate, they do not hold the necessary 60 seats, meaning Trump would need some Democratic senators to support the move—an improbable scenario. Even in the House of Representatives, securing enough backing would be difficult. A previous vote to abolish the department introduced as an amendment to another bill, failed when 60 Republicans joined all Democrats in opposition. This makes it likely that Trump’s pledge will remain largely symbolic.
