Arizona Leaders Respond to Trump’s Education Department Overhaul

By Staff Reporter |

The Department of Education (ED) is set to undergo significant changes as President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at reshaping the educational landscape in the United States. Titled “Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities,” the order, while not abolishing the agency outright, initiates a process that could reshape federal education policy.

In his directive, Trump cited declining literacy and math scores among students as evidence of the ED’s failures over the past 45 years. He argued that the agency’s substantial budget and staffing haven’t translated into positive educational outcomes. Notably, Trump’s order highlights a costly public relations office that operates at an annual budget of over $10 million.

“Closing the Department of Education would provide children and their families the opportunity to escape a system that is failing them,” the order states, further criticizing the agency for mishandling $1.6 trillion in student loan debt.

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has been tasked with implementing the order, which includes transferring authority back to individual states and discontinuing funding for programs that promote progressive ideologies, including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Reactions from leaders across Arizona reflect a stark divide along party lines. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne expressed support for the order, labeling the ED as an “unnecessary” bureaucratic layer. “Thank you President Trump for bringing education back to the states where it belongs,” Horne tweeted.

In contrast, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes condemned the executive order as “illegal,” asserting that dismantling the department cannot occur without congressional action. “This chaos is not about efficiency — it’s destruction,” Mayes argued on social media.

Governor Katie Hobbs raised concerns over the potential loss of nearly $1 billion in federal funding, which supports vital programs like special education and financial aid for low-income students. “Arizona could lose nearly $1 billion in vital education funding if the U.S. Department of Education is dismantled,” Hobbs stated.

Senator Mark Kelly echoed these apprehensions, asserting that eliminating the ED would undermine public schools, particularly affecting children from working-class families. Meanwhile, Senator Ruben Gallego accused Trump of attempting to enrich wealthy individuals at the expense of public education.

On the other hand, Republican leaders like Representative Eli Crane supported the move. Crane criticized the agency’s historical performance and thanked Trump for having the courage to initiate reforms. He echoed sentiments shared by other GOP members highlighting the contradiction of high funding levels and poor educational outcomes.

As the political landscape evolves, efforts are underway in Congress to codify the executive order into law. Senator Mike Rounds from South Dakota mentioned his work on legislation designed to return educational decision-making to local entities while safeguarding essential programs.

While proponents argue the changes are necessary for greater efficiency and improved educational outcomes, opponents warn of dire consequences for students. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future of education policy in Arizona and across the United States.