Wrestling mogul and Trump education pick McMahon clears Senate committee in heavyweight decision
The consideration of Linda McMahon to run the Department of Education (DoEd) has taken a significant step forward as the Trump nominee has advanced to a full Senate vote following a crucial decision on Thursday. McMahon faced tough questioning during her confirmation hearing last week before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Key issues discussed included recent spending cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the potential dismantling of the DoEd, and concerns surrounding Title IX.
Senator Bill Cassidy, R-La., expressed his support for McMahon, emphasizing the need for a strong leader in the education department. He stated, “We need a strong leader at the department who will get our education system back on track. Mrs. McMahon is the partner this committee needs.” The committee voted to advance McMahon’s nomination for Education Secretary to a full Senate vote.
However, not all senators were in favor of McMahon’s nomination. Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., spoke out against her nomination during the vote, criticizing the current administration’s approach to education policies. Sanders highlighted that the Secretary of Education may not have full autonomy in decision-making, pointing towards President Trump’s influence on key matters.
McMahon, the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), previously served as the administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during Trump’s first term. If confirmed, McMahon will be tasked with leading the Education Department, an agency that Trump has expressed interest in closing down immediately. The president has emphasized the need for reform in the education system, citing high costs and low international rankings.
The Education Department has faced scrutiny in recent weeks due to spending cuts initiated by DOGE, led by Elon Musk. The department has terminated numerous DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) training grants, totaling over $370 million, within a short span of 48 hours. These actions have raised concerns about the future direction of education policies and funding under McMahon’s potential leadership.
As McMahon’s nomination moves to the Senate floor for a full vote, the debate over the future of the Department of Education continues to be a contentious issue. The outcome of this vote will determine the direction of education policies and initiatives under the new administration. The role of the Education Secretary remains crucial in shaping the future of education in the United States, and McMahon’s confirmation will have a significant impact on the trajectory of these policies.
