21 States Sue Trump Over Education Layoffs

A coalition of attorneys general from 21 states, led by New York's Letitia James, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's decision to lay off approximately 50% of the U.S. Department of Education's workforce. The lawsuit argues that these cuts, which come as part of a broader effort to dismantle the department, are illegal and violate the separation of powers by undermining legislatively mandated functions. Critics, including Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, warn that the layoffs will have a detrimental impact on educational resources, particularly affecting low-income and special needs students who rely on federal support. Despite the administration's claims of cutting waste, the lawsuit maintains that only Congress has the authority to make such significant structural changes to a federal agency. The lawsuit seeks to halt the layoffs and preserve the Department of Education's ability to deliver critical services and protections.