U.S. House Democrats Challenge Education Secretary McMahon Over Budget Cuts and Anti-Diversity Policies

WASHINGTON — Education Secretary Linda McMahon faced criticism from Democrats during a U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce meeting regarding President Trump’s proposed overhaul of the federal education system. Lawmakers scrutinized the fiscal 2026 budget request, which seeks to cut education spending by $12 billion and eliminate the Education Department.

The budget document claims the cuts represent a responsible winding down of agency functions. Republican Chair Tim Walberg praised McMahon’s initiatives, emphasizing the need to reduce bureaucracy and increase trust in local educators and parents.

In stark contrast, Rep. Bobby Scott, the committee’s ranking Democrat, lambasted the department’s approach, asserting that the proposed funding cuts would hinder access to college for many students. He highlighted concerns for low-income families, students with disabilities, and students of color, predicting they would face significant barriers to education.

The budget includes plans to eliminate vital programs for disadvantaged students, such as Federal TRIO Programs and GEAR UP, while proposing to increase funding for charter schools. Notably, it also seeks to reduce Pell Grant maximums by nearly $1,700, affecting low-income college students.

Recent judicial rulings have complicated the administration’s education agenda. A federal judge ruled against the effort to cut over 1,300 jobs at the department, advocating for its reinstatement and blocking the closure of the agency while ongoing litigation continues.

Democratic lawmakers also criticized the administration’s stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The attempt to restrict schools from implementing DEI practices to receive federal funding has faced legal challenges. Rep. Summer Lee condemned this move, implying it revives past racial hostilities.

During the hearing, when questioned about educational content related to sensitive historical events, McMahon’s responses indicated uncertainty, raising concerns about the administration’s commitment to comprehensive education.

The budget proposal’s consolidation of 18 K-12 education grant programs into a single formula was also met with skepticism. Critics argued that relinquishing federal control might negatively affect states with poor education records. Arizona Rep. Yassamin Ansari labeled the current education system a failure, attributing this to inadequate state funding rather than excessive federal oversight.

In response to concerns about state management of education, McMahon insisted that federal funding cuts would not diminish overall support. This assertion received skepticism, especially considering Arizona’s struggling education metrics.