Trump set to sign executive order shuttering the Education Department
NBCMAR 18
Trump Signs Executive Order to Downsize Department of Education
Above: The US Department of Education headquarters in Washington, DC. Image copyright: Al Drago/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The federal education system has failed American students despite spending billions of dollars, with declining test scores and resources being diverted to ideological initiatives instead of core education. Returning control to states and local communities will improve educational outcomes and empower parents to make choices about their children's education.
Democratic narrative
The Dept. of Education plays a crucial role in leveling the playing field and filling opportunity gaps for all American children. Essentially dismantling public education would harm vulnerable students, increase class sizes, make higher education less accessible, and remove vital civil rights protections that ensure equal access to quality education regardless of zip code.