Education Secretary Linda McMahon Says Shutdown ‘Proved Just How Little Department Will Be Missed’

President Donald Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon recently made a bold statement regarding the 43-day government shutdown that took place earlier this year. In an interview with Breitbart, McMahon stated that the shutdown “proved just how little the Department of Education will be missed.” This statement has sparked controversy and debate among educators and politicians alike.

The government shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, was the longest in US history and affected millions of Americans. It was a result of a disagreement between President Trump and Congress over funding for a border wall. As a result, many government agencies, including the Department of Education, were forced to close their doors and furlough employees.

During this time, many people were concerned about the impact the shutdown would have on education. However, McMahon’s statement suggests that the Department of Education’s absence had little effect on the education system. This has raised questions about the necessity and effectiveness of the department.

McMahon, a successful businesswoman and former CEO of WWE, was appointed as the Education Secretary in 2017. She has been a strong advocate for reducing the size and scope of the federal government, and her recent statement reflects this belief. She argues that the shutdown proved that the Department of Education is not as essential as many people believe it to be.

But is this really the case? The Department of Education was created in 1980 with the goal of promoting educational excellence and ensuring equal access to education for all Americans. It is responsible for distributing federal funds to schools, enforcing federal education laws, and collecting data on education in the US. These are crucial tasks that have a significant impact on the education system.

During the shutdown, the Department of Education was unable to perform these duties, and many schools and students were left in limbo. However, McMahon argues that the absence of the department did not have a significant impact on education. She points to the fact that many schools continued to operate and receive funding from state and local sources.

While it is true that some schools were able to function without federal funding, it is important to note that many schools, especially those in low-income areas, rely heavily on federal funds. The shutdown also affected the processing of financial aid for college students, causing delays and uncertainty for those who depend on it to afford their education.

McMahon’s statement has been met with criticism from educators and politicians who argue that the Department of Education plays a crucial role in ensuring equal access to education for all students. They also point out that the shutdown caused unnecessary stress and disruption for students and their families.

Furthermore, the Department of Education is responsible for enforcing federal education laws, including those that protect students from discrimination and harassment. Without this oversight, there were concerns that students’ rights could be compromised.

In response to the backlash, McMahon clarified her statement, saying that she did not mean to imply that the Department of Education is not important. She stated that her point was that the shutdown showed that the department is not as essential as other government agencies, such as those responsible for national security and public safety.

While it is true that the Department of Education may not be as crucial as other government agencies, it still plays a vital role in the education system. The shutdown highlighted the importance of having a well-functioning and adequately funded department to ensure the smooth operation of schools and the protection of students’ rights.

In conclusion, Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s statement about the government shutdown has sparked a debate about the necessity of the Department of Education. While her intention may have been to highlight the department’s role in the government, her words have raised concerns about the value and importance of education in the eyes of the current administration. As educators and citizens, it is our responsibility to advocate for a strong and effective Department of Education that prioritizes the education and well-being of all students.