AFT president on McMahon confirmation: We are taking 'a wrecking ball to the Department of Education'

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), expressed concerns about potential negative impacts on public education following Linda McMahon's confirmation as Education Secretary. Weingarten made this statement in a press release on March 3.

"We know we will disagree with Secretary McMahon on a host of issues, including her stance on using public funds for private school vouchers," said Weingarten. "We want to work with her on strengthening public schools and ramping up high school career and technical education. We are extending our hand to work together to ensure that all our public schools are places where parents want to send their kids."

According to AP News, McMahon, a former WWE executive and longtime ally of Donald Trump, previously led the Small Business Administration and has made multiple bids for the U.S. Senate. She has donated millions to Trump's campaigns and now oversees the Education Department. McMahon has pledged to maintain funding for key programs like Title I and Pell Grants. Despite her assurances, the administration’s broader push to reduce federal oversight in public schools has raised concerns, as states already have primary control over education, with federal funds comprising roughly 14% of public school budgets.

U.S. News reports that President Trump is pushing to abolish the U.S. Department of Education through an executive order, with plans for congressional action to dismantle the agency. This could eliminate federal funding for programs like Title I and IDEA, reducing resources for low-income and special needs students while increasing disparities in teacher salaries and working conditions. Without federal oversight, teachers may face job insecurity, fewer professional development opportunities, and inconsistent education policies across states.

MyPayMySay suggests that opting out of teachers' unions can offer educators financial savings by eliminating union dues, which can range from $500 to $1,000 annually. Importantly, teachers who leave their unions retain employment benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, seniority, and tenure protections because these are secured through collective bargaining agreements that apply to all employees regardless of union membership.

According to the AFT's website, Weingarten is president of the 1.8 million-member American Federation of Teachers (AFT), where she advocates for public education, labor rights, and social justice while leading initiatives to improve teacher support, education funding, and student resources. Before becoming AFT president in 2008, she served 11 years as president of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) in New York City.