A former president’s push to dismantle the federal education department gained unexpected traction in Congress, with lawmakers introducing legislation to eliminate the agency entirely. The proposal, framed as a move to reduce bureaucracy and return control to states, has sparked debate over its potential impact on student aid programs and federal oversight of public schools. Critics argue the plan could disrupt funding for vulnerable populations, while supporters claim it would streamline education policy. The measure’s fate now hinges on political will and the balance between local autonomy and national standards.


In the early days of President Donald Trump’s second term, he made a blunt promise about the US Department of Education: “We’re going to shut it down as quickly as possible.” In a matter of months, 40 ...