AFT Responds to Trump’s Nomination of Linda McMahon for Education Secretary

Linda McMahon’s Nomination for Education Secretary Sparks Discussion

WASHINGTON—The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has reacted to President-elect Donald Trump's nomination of Linda McMahon for the role of Education Secretary. AFT President Randi Weingarten expressed mixed feelings about the appointment, highlighting both potential positives and significant concerns.

Weingarten acknowledged McMahon's background, noting her early interest in teaching and her involvement with the Connecticut State Board of Education, where she focused on literacy and career pathways. "While the job of education secretary should not be a consolation prize, we are pleased that Linda McMahon wanted to teach in her early life and that her work on the Connecticut State Board of Education led to her interest in literacy and building career pathways," Weingarten stated.

The AFT emphasized its willingness to collaborate with McMahon, provided that the focus remains on enhancing public education. Weingarten remarked, "We will try to work with anyone who puts the aspirations of our students, families and communities first. That means strengthening public education, not undermining it. Voters made it clear that’s what they wanted in November’s down-ballot elections."

Weingarten also addressed concerns over the Trump administration's intention to disband the Department of Education, which could jeopardize federal funding vital for children in need, those with disabilities, and first-generation college students. "We question the future of these popular ideas and more if the Trump administration follows through with plans to close the Department of Education," she added.

Furthermore, Weingarten highlighted the critical role of college education as a driver of innovation and opportunity, underscoring the necessity for accessible higher education without burdensome debt. She stated, "College has always been the engine to innovation and opportunity in America, to individual growth and improvement, as well as strengthening communities."

Addressing economic disparities, she pointed out the challenges faced by working-class and middle-class families in affording higher education costs, in contrast to wealthier families who may have fewer financial constraints.

The AFT president also stressed the importance of local control in schools, advocating for the flexibility needed by educators to meet student needs effectively. "They want the latitude to teach, not test, to meet their students' needs," Weingarten noted.

Ultimately, Weingarten posed several questions regarding McMahon's potential policies, asking, "Will Linda McMahon support us as we teach students to read? Will she protect kids and families, so that everyone in a school feels welcome and can learn?"

While uncertainties remain about McMahon's approach, Weingarten affirmed the AFT's commitment to working on policies that benefit students, families, educators, and communities. "We don’t know the answers to these questions. And while we expect that we will disagree with Linda McMahon on many issues, our devotion to kids requires us to work together," she concluded.

The AFT represents 1.8 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers, paraprofessionals, and other school-related personnel, as well as higher education faculty, professional staff, and various public service employees.