Official records from the U.S. Senate

Senator Mike Rounds Proposes Bill to Abolish Department of Education; Trump Plans American Academy Funded by Lawsuits

Nov 30, 2024, 11:10 PM

Republican Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota has introduced legislation aimed at abolishing the Department of Education, arguing that the federal agency has not effectively contributed to student education. Rounds stated, "The federal Department of Education has never educated a single student, and it’s long past time to end this bureaucratic department that causes more harm than good." This proposal aligns with sentiments expressed by various supporters who advocate for local control over education, emphasizing that parents should have the primary role in determining their children's educational needs. The initiative has garnered attention from other political figures and commentators, with discussions surrounding the potential implications of such a significant change in the educational landscape. Additionally, former President Trump has proposed the creation of a free online academy called the “American Academy,” which would be funded through lawsuits against large private universities.