Unexpected Appointment: How Linda McMahon Could Reshape Education Policy

Children raising hands in classroom. — Rear view of kids raising hands while teacher explaining the functioning of human skeleton in classroom at school

Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon tapped as Trump’s pick for Education Secretary, sparking debate on her qualifications and vision for America’s schools.

At a Glance

Linda McMahon, 76, nominated as Education Secretary by Donald Trump
McMahon is a longtime Trump supporter with limited education policy experience
Nomination faces opposition from public education advocates
Trump emphasizes McMahon’s leadership and plans for educational choice
Nomination subject to Senate confirmation process

Trump Nominates Linda McMahon for Education Secretary

Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), as his pick for Education Secretary in his upcoming administration. McMahon, 76, is a longtime friend and supporter of Trump, having led the America First Action PAC for his reelection campaign. The nomination marks a significant step for the businesswoman, who previously served as the head of the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019.

Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience and understanding of education and business, emphasizing her potential role in empowering American students and workers. The former president stated that McMahon would spearhead efforts to return education control to the states and expand educational choice across America.

“Linda will use her decades of leadership experience, and deep understanding of both education and business, to empower the next generation of American students and workers, and make America number one in education in the world. We will send education back to the states, and Linda will spearhead that effort.” – Trump

McMahon’s Background and Education Experience

While McMahon has limited experience in education policy, she has been an advocate for school choice and charter schools. Her background includes serving on the Connecticut board of education and involvement with Teach For America. McMahon’s business acumen, gained from co-founding WWE with her husband Vince McMahon, is seen as a potential asset in her new role.

Since 2021, McMahon has served as the board chairperson of the America First Policy Institute and chair of its Center for the American Worker. Her nomination follows her appointment as transition team chair in August, after donating $814,600 to Trump’s campaign. This political involvement, coupled with her business experience, forms the foundation of her candidacy for the education portfolio.

Controversy and Opposition

McMahon’s nomination has not been without controversy. The National Education Association has urged the Senate to reject her nomination, citing concerns over Trump’s proposed education policies. Critics argue that McMahon’s limited experience in education policy may hinder her ability to effectively lead the Department of Education.

“By selecting Linda McMahon, Donald Trump is showing that he could not care less about our students’ futures.” – Becky Pringle

Adding to the controversy, McMahon is currently involved in a lawsuit alleging that WWE leaders, including herself and her husband, allowed sexual abuse by a former WWE ring crew chief. The McMahons’ attorney has vehemently denied these allegations, calling them “false claims” and “absurd, defamatory and utterly meritless.”

Potential Impact on Education Policy

If confirmed, McMahon’s tenure as Education Secretary is expected to align with Trump’s vision for education reform. This includes expanding school choice initiatives, returning more control to states, and potentially cutting federal funding to schools promoting critical race theory and transgender issues. The National Parents Union has expressed optimism about McMahon focusing on literacy and addressing learning loss from the pandemic.

McMahon’s nomination will need to clear a Senate vote, with Sen. Bill Cassidy responsible for steering the nomination through the process. As the confirmation hearings approach, educators, parents, and policymakers will be closely watching to see how McMahon’s business-oriented mindset might shape the future of American education under a potential second Trump administration.