MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Earlier this year, President Trump nominated Linda McMahon to head the Department of Education (DOE), a critical agency that he has repeatedly called to dismantle. And in anticipation of McMahon’s confirmation hearing, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) expresses significant concerns about her commitment to fulfill the responsibilities of this position and her overall lack of expertise in America’s diverse public education system.
“As the cornerstone of our thriving democracy, the Department of Education serves an essential role advancing educational equity and protecting students’ civil rights,” said Margaret Huang, president and CEO, SPLC. “The Secretary of Education must be dedicated to strengthening public education and ensuring every student across this country learns in an inclusive, accessible and fully-funded school environment.
“Linda McMahon has spent most of her career as a professional wrestling executive. Her leadership at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) emphasized corporate growth over public good, raising doubts about her ability to prioritize the distinct needs of students, educators and communities. Her ties to the America First Policy Institute and her support for Moms for America, a designated antigovernment group opposing inclusive student learning, threatens to harm our public education system.
“SPLC urges the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee to thoroughly scrutinize Linda McMahon’s qualifications and demand clear commitments to ensure equal access to education. The American people deserve an Education Secretary who will stand up for the needs of students and teachers, prioritize public education and work to serve all communities equitably,” Huang concluded.
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About the Southern Poverty Law Center
The Southern Poverty Law Center is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people. For more information, visit www.splcenter.org.