President Donald Trump’s push to dismantle the U.S. Education Department is facing obstacles as the majority of its funding and existence are mandated by Congress. While Trump campaigned on closing the department citing ideological concerns, his ability to do so unilaterally is limited. A planned executive order aims to start winding down the agency but emphasizes the need for congressional action to abolish it. Despite Trump’s desire to cut spending, key programs like Title I funding and federal student loans are legislatively mandated, posing challenges to significant budget reductions.

The White House has initiated measures such as placing Education Department employees on paid leave and offering buyouts to encourage departures, signaling a commitment to downsizing the agency. Trump’s intention to refocus education on “patriotic” values and combat controversial curricula further complicates the department’s future. Efforts by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to streamline federal agencies have added to the uncertainty surrounding the Education Department’s fate.

As Trump faces opposition from both Republicans and Democrats regarding the closure of the agency, questions arise about the potential impact on federal funding for schools and states. Concerns about disruptions to critical programs supporting low-income schools and special education have been raised. While a conservative blueprint proposes redistributing key education programs to other agencies, Trump’s plan faces backlash from Democrats in Congress and could complicate the confirmation of his nominee for education secretary, Linda McMahon.

The fate of the Education Department remains uncertain as Trump navigates political challenges and seeks to fulfill his campaign promise amidst resistance and uncertainty about the implications for education funding and policy.