Education Secretary Linda McMahon: Linda McMahon, a billionaire co-founder of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and a longtime ally of Donald Trump, has been announced as the Secretary of Education in Trump’s incoming administration. Her nomination follows a series of Trump cabinet picks that emphasize loyalty over expertise, raising questions and concerns among critics.
McMahon’s Relationship with Trump
From Campaign Supporter to Transition Chair
In July 2024, McMahon made headlines with her $814,600 donation to Trump’s campaign, which preceded her appointment as the chair for Trump’s transition team. Her loyalty to the former president has been unwavering, a trait that seems to align with Trump’s cabinet selection strategy.
Trump’s Endorsement of McMahon
In a statement, Trump praised McMahon’s business acumen and leadership skills, saying:
“As Secretary of Education, Linda will fight tirelessly to expand ‘Choice’ to every State in America and empower parents to make the best Education decisions for their families. … We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES, and Linda will spearhead that effort.”
On Truth Social, Trump added that McMahon would use her “decades of leadership experience” to empower American students and workers, blending her expertise in business with her new educational responsibilities.
A Long-Standing Connection with WWE
Trump and McMahon share a long history rooted in WWE, with Trump even making appearances at WWE events. This connection further cements McMahon’s position as one of Trump’s trusted allies.
McMahon’s Experience in Education
Despite Trump’s glowing endorsements, McMahon’s background in education is limited. Her most notable experience includes a one-year stint on the Connecticut State Board of Education. She has no formal background in teaching, policy-making, or running educational institutions, which has sparked criticism over her qualifications for this role.
Criticism of Trump’s Cabinet Choices
A Pattern of Loyalty Over Expertise
McMahon’s nomination came shortly after Trump selected Mehmet Oz, a television personality and celebrity doctor, to oversee Medicare, Medicaid, and Obamacare. These choices have been widely criticized for prioritizing loyalty and celebrity over professional expertise.
Controversial Remarks on Trump
Interestingly, McMahon hasn’t hesitated to criticize Trump in the past. During his 2016 presidential bid, she condemned his remarks about women, calling them “deplorable” and “objectionable.” Speaking to Yahoo, she said:
“He’s not helping, certainly, to put women in the best light. Maybe he regrets them, maybe he doesn’t.”
Legal Controversies Surrounding McMahon
McMahon has also faced controversy outside of politics. She, her husband Vince McMahon, and other WWE executives were named in a lawsuit alleging they allowed the sexual abuse of young boys by a ringside announcer. The McMahons have denied any involvement, with their lawyer calling the claims “absurd, defamatory, and utterly meritless.”
McMahon’s Political Career
After stepping down as WWE CEO, McMahon ventured into politics, running unsuccessfully for a U.S. Senate seat in 2010 and 2012, losing to Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, respectively.
Leadership at America First Policy Institute
More recently, McMahon chaired the board of the America First Policy Institute, a think tank that advocates for conservative policies. Trump highlighted her role there, emphasizing her advocacy for Parents’ Rights as a key qualification for her new role.
Challenges Ahead as Education Secretary
McMahon’s nomination comes at a turbulent time for U.S. education policy. Key issues on the horizon include:
- Student Loan Forgiveness: Ongoing legal battles over President Joe Biden’s student loan initiatives.
- School Choice Expansion: Trump’s promise to expand school choice and return education decisions to the states.
- Title IX Protections: Questions about how McMahon’s leadership will address equity and protections for students.
A Department in Flux
Trump has repeatedly vowed to dismantle the Department of Education altogether, leaving McMahon with the responsibility of navigating an uncertain future for the agency.
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