The nomination of Linda McMahon to run the Department of Education (DoEd) has advanced to a full Senate vote after a decision by the Trump administration on Thursday. McMahon faced questioning during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee last week. Topics discussed included recent spending cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), potential dismantling of the DoEd, and Title IX.
Senator Bill Cassidy, R-La., expressed support for McMahon, stating the need for a strong leader to improve the education system. The HELP Committee voted to advance McMahon's nomination to a full Senate vote following the hearing.
However, Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., voiced opposition to McMahon's nomination during the vote, emphasizing the broader political context in which the Education Secretary operates.
McMahon, known for her previous role as CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), also served as administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during Trump's first term. If confirmed, McMahon would head the Education Department, an agency Trump has expressed interest in closing.
President Trump's remarks highlighted concerns about the U.S. education system's performance compared to its high per-pupil spending. He urged McMahon to work towards improving efficiency within the Education Department.
The Education Department has faced scrutiny recently due to spending cuts by DOGE, led by Elon Musk, resulting in the termination of DEI training grants totaling over $370 million. McMahon's nomination now awaits a Senate floor vote, with the schedule yet to be determined.
