Jimmy Carter's creation of the U.S. Department of Education in 1979 is facing unprecedented challenges as the Trump administration prepares for power.
Trump has promised to “close” the department, deeming it a "bloated and radical bureaucracy," despite lacking detailed plans for implementation.
Recent actions by Republican senators indicate an interest in dismantling the agency further, echoing criticisms from its inception.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona emphasizes that Carter's vision underpins current educational initiatives, celebrating his influence on federal education policy.
The potential closure raises significant historical parallels, as past presidents have similarly threatened the department's existence but ultimately maintained it.