In a bold move aligned with the MAGA agenda, North Carolina representative David Rouzer introduced a bill on Monday to abolish the US Department of Education. The proposed legislation, H.R. 369, seeks to dismantle the federal agency that oversees national education standards, funding, and policies. If passed, the bill could result in the redirection of approximately $200 billion, the current annual budget of the Department of Education.
This proposal is part of a broader vision championed by US President-elect Donald Trump under his "Project 2025" agenda. Trump has long advocated for reducing federal control over education, promoting local governance and parental oversight instead. According to
The New Republic, Rouzer’s bill reflects this MAGA-driven initiative to minimize the federal role in education.
Impact on Schools and FundingThe US Education Department currently provides about 13.6% of the funding for public K-12 schools across the nation. If the department were abolished, this funding responsibility would likely shift to state governments and local school districts, which could face significant challenges in covering the gap. Supporters argue that eliminating the department could lead to savings, which could be redirected to other priorities, including tax cuts for corporations, as
The New Republic notes.
However, critics warn that the move could exacerbate inequalities in the education system, particularly in low-income regions. Without federal oversight, poorer states and districts might struggle even more to fund their schools adequately. As reported by
The New Republic, detractors argue that this proposal could widen the gap between wealthy and disadvantaged areas.
A National Debate on Education ControlThe proposal has ignited a nationwide debate about the future of education in the United States. Proponents of the bill, aligned with MAGA's vision, claim it would grant parents and local communities greater control over their children’s education. At an October 2024 rally, Trump proposed simplifying education to core subjects like English and arithmetic, excluding so-called "woke" content.
However, critics fear that removing federal oversight could worsen existing educational disparities, especially in poorer states and districts. As the debate continues, it remains uncertain whether the bill will gain enough support in Congress to move forward.
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