Trump Slams Department of Education as a ‘Con Job,’ Orders Major Cuts

U.S. Education System Under Fire as Trump Moves to Shut Down DOE

In a striking rebuke of the nation’s education system, President Donald Trump labeled the Department of Education (DOE) a “con job” on Wednesday, citing a report that ranks the United States 40th globally in education while holding the top spot for per-pupil spending.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump was asked how soon he wanted the DOE to be shut down. “Oh, I’d like it to be closed immediately,” he responded. “We spend more per pupil than any other country in the world, yet we’re ranked No. 40. Something is really wrong.”

Trump also noted that the last time he reviewed global education rankings, the U.S. held the 38th position, but it has since dropped to 40th. He pointed to China’s top-five ranking, emphasizing the urgent need for educational reform. “That’s our primary competitor, and they’re excelling while we’re falling behind,” he remarked.

Department of Government Efficiency Slashes DOE Budget

In a bold move to curb federal spending, Trump has tasked the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—led by Elon Musk—with identifying wasteful expenditures. This week, the DOE faced significant budget cuts, with $881 million across 89 contracts being slashed.

Among the $881 million in cuts, $101 million was directly tied to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, which funded programs teaching educators about oppression, privilege, and systemic inequities. Musk, in a scathing post, criticized the spending, stating, “Your tax dollars were spent on this.”

Trump’s Education Reform Agenda Gains Momentum

Trump has been doubling down on education reform, signing two executive orders aimed at reshaping the nation’s academic landscape. One order eliminates federal funding for K-12 schools that teach Critical Race Theory (CRT), while another expands school choice options for parents.

Ongoing Crackdown on Higher Education

The push for education reform has also extended to higher education institutions, with Trump’s administration launching investigations into allegations of antisemitism at five universities. Additionally, his campaign has promised to defund schools that promote controversial racial, sexual, and political ideologies.

Political and Public Reactions

The cuts have sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters argue that the DOE has failed to deliver results despite excessive funding, while critics warn that these measures could undermine public education and widen disparities.

With education policy now a major battleground in the upcoming election, Trump’s aggressive stance has put the DOE under intense scrutiny. As the debate over spending versus performance rages on, one thing is clear—Trump is determined to make sweeping changes, and the future of U.S. education hangs in the balance.