House Republicans Take ‘First Step’ Toward Dismantling Department of Education

July 21, 2026 - 00:05

A sweeping legislative package designed to codify President Donald Trump's efforts to shrink the U.S. Department of Education has moved forward in Congress. Republican leaders in the House described the bill as the "first step" in a long-promised campaign to reduce federal involvement in education and shift authority back to state and local governments.

The proposed legislation would significantly cut the department's budget and eliminate several key programs, including those related to teacher training, student financial aid oversight, and civil rights enforcement in schools. Supporters argue that the federal agency has overstepped its original mandate and that states are better equipped to handle educational policy without Washington interference.

Critics, however, warn that dismantling the department could harm vulnerable students, particularly those with disabilities and those from low-income families who rely on federal funding and protections. Democratic lawmakers have vowed to fight the measure, calling it a dangerous overreach that would weaken public education nationwide.

The bill now heads to committee for debate, where its chances of passing the full House remain uncertain. Even if it clears the lower chamber, it faces a steep uphill battle in the Senate, where bipartisan support would be required to overcome a filibuster.