The fight over the future of America’s public education system has reached the courts — and more than 175 Democratic lawmakers are jumping in to stop the Trump administration from breaking up the U.S. Department of Education.
This week, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senator Chuck Schumer, and a long list of congressional Democrats filed an amicus brief supporting the NAACP’s lawsuit that aims to halt the administration’s plan to slash the department’s staff, shut down programs, and possibly abolish it altogether.
What’s Happening?
Earlier this year, the NAACP, the National Education Association (NEA), and other groups sued the federal government over what they say is an unconstitutional attempt to gut the Department of Education. They argue that cutting nearly half the staff and stopping key grant programs violates laws passed by Congress.
The stakes just got higher after the administration paused more than $6 billion in approved funding for schools — money that pays for summer learning, after-school help, English language programs, and teacher training across the country.
What the Lawmakers Say
In the new 15-page brief, Warren and her colleagues make their case clear: Congress — not the president — controls whether a federal agency exists or not.
“The law couldn’t be clearer: the president does not have the authority to unilaterally abolish the Department of Education,” Warren said. “Donald Trump is not a king.”
Rep. Jamie Raskin, who helped lead the filing, said Trump and Education Secretary Linda McMahon can’t just sidestep Congress and dismantle a department that serves tens of millions of students.
“This is the right of every citizen and an essential democratic safeguard against political tyranny,” Raskin said. “No president has the authority to dismantle a federal agency created by law.”
What’s at Risk?
Lawmakers and education groups warn that shutting down the Education Department would rip away vital support for students, especially those who rely on federal programs for special education, literacy, English language help, and financial aid.
Rep. Joe Neguse of Colorado put it bluntly: closing the department would strip “vital support” from students and teachers nationwide.
For Rep. Frederica Wilson, a former principal, the risk hits close to home. “Schools are the bedrock of this nation,” she said. “When schools are working, our country is, too.”
A Bigger Battle Over Public Education
The push to dismantle the department ties into a broader fight over how much the federal government should be involved in public schools. Critics say the department wastes money and adds red tape. Supporters say it’s an essential piece of American democracy, helping make sure every student — no matter their zip code — has a shot at a good education.
This week’s brief is part of Warren’s Save Our Schools campaign, launched after Trump signed an executive order to shrink the department’s reach. Warren has also pushed for investigations into cuts to federal student aid staff and how the changes could hurt borrowers.
What Happens Next?
Lower courts have already blocked some parts of the administration’s plan, but the fight isn’t over. The Supreme Court could soon decide whether thousands of Education Department jobs can be cut.
Meanwhile, the NEA and other groups are asking the courts for an emergency order to stop the funding freeze — which they say could disrupt schools just as a new year begins.
What’s At Stake for Students?
Without the Education Department, states and local districts would likely be left to fill the gaps — or risk losing funding for services many families count on: after-school programs, special education, college financial aid, literacy coaches, and help for students learning English.
“The federal government has invested in our public schools,” Warren said. “Taking that away from our kids so that a handful of billionaires can be even richer is just plain ugly, and I will fight it with everything I’ve got.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on current statements from lawmakers, court filings, and education groups. For updates, follow the NAACP, NEA, or your local representatives.
