Oklahoma lawmakers are showing support for the elimination of the Department of Education, following President-elect Donald Trump's campaign promise to do away with the department. Republican Policy Committee Chair-elect and Oklahoma Rep. Kevin Hern expressed his belief in shifting more education responsibilities to the state level rather than Washington, D.C., citing a longstanding Republican stance on the issue.
Rep. Josh Brecheen echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all approach may be limiting educational innovation and creativity. He emphasized the importance of granting states complete control over education.
Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters also backed the idea of abolishing the federal department, asserting that the federal government has exerted undue influence on the education system through taxpayer-funded policies.
President Trump's expressed support for closing the Department of Education and devolving education-related responsibilities to the states has further fueled momentum for this proposal. Notable figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, appointed by Trump to enhance federal government efficiency, have endorsed the plan to eliminate the department.
While many Oklahoma Republicans favor disbanding the Education Department, some lawmakers, like Rep. Frank Lucas, are concerned about ensuring that federal funding continues to support state and local schools. Lucas emphasized the importance of federal dollars in areas such as reading programs and support for disabled students.
Rep. Tom Cole expressed his support for abolishing the Department of Education but highlighted the necessity of maintaining federal Impact Aid, which provides significant funding to Oklahoma schools. Cole acknowledged the bureaucratic challenges within the education system but raised doubts about garnering sufficient Senate support for the department's abolition.
