Former World Wrestling Entertainment CEO and President Trump's nominee for Education Secretary, Linda McMahon, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Introduced by Senators Tim Scott and Katie Britt, McMahon emphasized her commitment to improving education for all American learners. Her opening statement, shared with Fox News Digital, stressed aligning with Trump's vision of prioritizing education and empowering American workers.
McMahon reiterated Trump's campaign promises to elevate American education, return control to states, and promote school choice. She expressed gratitude for Trump's confidence in her ability to lead the Department of Education, a key focus of his campaign.
McMahon's nomination comes amidst Trump's stated desire to dismantle the Department of Education. He reiterated this stance just hours before her hearing, calling it a "con job" and criticizing the high cost per pupil compared to other countries. This coincides with the Department of Government Efficiency's ongoing financial audit of the federal government.
Having previously served as the Small Business Administration administrator during Trump's first term, McMahon highlighted her experience in both the public and private sectors. She emphasized her commitment to prioritizing parents, teachers, and students over bureaucracy. She also advocated for school choice, suggesting it empowers teachers and parents by offering alternatives to classrooms she believes are overly controlled by Washington.
McMahon also addressed issues such as antisemitism in schools and the inclusion of biological males in women's sports. She pledged to combat discrimination against Jewish students and protect the rights of parents in their children's moral education.
McMahon acknowledged the challenges facing the American education system but expressed optimism about the opportunities for improvement. Trump's November nomination announcement emphasized McMahon's commitment to expanding school choice and empowering parents. Her background includes co-founding WWE with her husband, which has become a global entertainment network, and serving on the Connecticut Board of Education.
Following the hearing, the committee will vote on whether to advance her nomination to a full Senate vote.
