US Education Department plans 50% staff cuts amid Trump overhaul

The U.S. Department of Education has announced plans to lay off nearly half of its workforce as part of President Donald Trump's initiative to dismantle the agency. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon indicated that the layoffs are in line with Trump's directive to shut down the Department, which he has criticized as ineffective. Approximately 2,183 employees will remain, while affected employees will be placed on paid administrative leave until March 21. This decision follows similar staff reductions across other federal agencies aimed at cutting government spending. The move has prompted significant backlash, with union leaders and some lawmakers expressing concerns over the potential legal ramifications of such drastic cuts. Despite the controversy, McMahon stated that essential programs would still be maintained during this transition.