President Trump moves to abolish US Department of Education, faces legislative hurdles

Washington: Former US President Donald Trump has signed an order to dismantle the US Department of Education, fulfilling a campaign promise made during the presidential election. The decision has sparked global debate, raising concerns about its impact on America’s education system.

The US Department of Education, established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, oversees educational policies, provides financial aid to schools, and enforces civil rights laws in education.

While state and district administrations primarily manage education in the US, the federal department plays a key role in funding programs for disabled and disadvantaged students.

Despite Trump’s order, abolishing the department is not straightforward. While the president can appoint and remove cabinet members, dismantling a federal agency requires congressional approval.

In the Senate, Trump would need a supermajority of 60 votes, but his Republican Party holds only 53 seats, making it difficult to secure the necessary Democratic support. In the House of Representatives, past attempts to eliminate the department have faced strong bipartisan opposition.

Given these challenges, Trump’s order to close the Department of Education is expected to face significant political and legal obstacles.