"Linda McMahon’s Appointment as Education Secretary: A New Chapter or Betsy DeVos 2.0?"

Linda McMahon — at first glance — appears a lot like her predecessor, Betsy DeVos, pictured above.

President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Linda McMahon as Education Secretary has ignited a fierce debate, with some viewing her as a continuation of the controversial policies of Betsy DeVos and others seeing her as a pragmatic choice for reforming federal education policy. McMahon, a billionaire donor and former head of the Small Business Administration, brings a mix of business acumen and a relatively moderate stance on education, but her nomination raises questions about the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, school choice, and civil rights in schools.

This article examines McMahon’s background, her potential policy priorities, and the implications of her leadership for America’s education system.

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Who Is Linda McMahon?

From Wrestling Rings to Washington

Linda McMahon’s career is rooted in the private sector. She co-founded World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) with her husband Vince McMahon, transforming it into a global entertainment powerhouse. Her foray into public service began with her tenure as the head of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during Trump’s first term. At the SBA, McMahon emphasized entrepreneurship and workforce training, earning bipartisan support during her Senate confirmation.

While McMahon has limited experience in education policy, she served briefly on the Connecticut Board of Education. Her advocacy has focused on expanding apprenticeship programs, promoting alternatives to traditional four-year degrees, and increasing Pell Grant eligibility for short-term training programs—issues that resonate across party lines.

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Education Policy Views: A Blank Slate?

McMahon has largely avoided taking public stances on divisive education issues, such as transgender rights, book bans, or the role of critical race theory in curricula. This silence contrasts with the outspoken positions of Betsy DeVos, who championed conservative cultural values during her tenure.

Statements and Signals

In a recent social media post, McMahon highlighted the importance of equipping students with skills for future success but steered clear of addressing the polarizing debates dominating education today. Her measured approach may signal an attempt to appeal to a broader audience while avoiding unnecessary controversy during the confirmation process.

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The Role of the America First Policy Institute

As chair of the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute, McMahon has been linked to the organization’s education agenda, which includes:

• Opposing DEI Mandates: The institute has criticized diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements in higher education and workforce training, describing them as burdensome for businesses.
• Promoting School Choice: The think tank supports tax incentives for private school scholarships and vouchers, aligning with Trump’s education priorities.
• Targeting “Gender Confusion”: AFPI has accused K-12 schools of advancing policies that foster “gender confusion,” suggesting potential challenges to transgender-inclusive practices.

Although McMahon has distanced herself from some of these more extreme positions, her leadership could reflect the organization’s broader objectives.

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School Choice and Civil Rights Under McMahon

School Choice Expansion

One of Trump’s signature education policies is the expansion of school choice, including federal tax breaks for private school scholarship donations. McMahon is expected to champion this initiative, leveraging her business background to advocate for market-driven solutions in education.

Linda McMahon speaks during the last day of the 2024 Republican National Convention. 

Civil Rights Enforcement

McMahon’s approach to civil rights enforcement remains uncertain. DeVos faced criticism for rolling back Obama-era protections for transgender students and narrowing the scope of Title IX investigations. While McMahon has not explicitly addressed these issues, the civil rights division of the Department of Education under her leadership could play a pivotal role in shaping policies on gender identity and discrimination.

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Criticism and Support

Opposition from Teachers’ Unions

Teachers’ unions have expressed skepticism about McMahon’s nomination, likening her to DeVos in terms of her outsider status and perceived lack of commitment to public education. National Education Association President Becky Pringle dismissed McMahon as “Betsy DeVos 2.0,” arguing that her appointment signals a disregard for students and educators.

Support from Conservatives

On the other hand, conservative leaders have praised McMahon’s managerial skills and alignment with Trump’s vision for education reform. Jim Blew, a former Trump administration official, described her as a capable leader who could effectively advocate for school choice and taxpayer interests.

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Challenges Ahead: Confirmation and Controversy

Easier Path to Confirmation

Unlike some of Trump’s more polarizing Cabinet picks, McMahon is expected to face a relatively smooth confirmation process. Her experience leading the SBA and her pragmatic demeanor have earned her respect among Republicans and some moderate Democrats.

Potential Roadblocks

However, McMahon’s association with WWE and her involvement in a recent lawsuit alleging misconduct within the organization could raise ethical concerns. Critics may also scrutinize her limited experience in education policy and her potential alignment with AFPI’s controversial agenda.

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The Future of DEI and Workforce Training

McMahon’s views on DEI initiatives reflect a nuanced position. While she opposes mandates that she believes impose unnecessary burdens on businesses, she has acknowledged the importance of diversity in workforce training programs. This balanced approach could influence how the Department of Education navigates the ongoing debate over DEI policies in schools and universities.

Workforce Development

As a proponent of apprenticeship programs and career-oriented education, McMahon is likely to prioritize initiatives that prepare students for the workforce. Expanding access to vocational training and alternative credentials could become key pillars of her agenda.

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Betsy DeVos 2.0 or a New Direction?

The comparisons between McMahon and DeVos are inevitable, given their shared backgrounds as wealthy outsiders and their affiliation with Trump. However, McMahon’s moderate tone and focus on workforce training set her apart from her predecessor’s culture war-driven approach.

A Pragmatic Leader?

Some observers believe McMahon’s business-oriented perspective could bring a practical approach to managing the Department of Education. Her emphasis on skills training and bipartisan education initiatives may help bridge the gap between political factions.

A Continuation of Trump’s Vision

Ultimately, McMahon’s tenure will likely reflect Trump’s broader education agenda, including school choice, deregulation, and a pushback against progressive cultural policies. Whether she adopts a more conciliatory tone or doubles down on conservative priorities remains to be seen.

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A Critical Juncture for U.S. Education

Linda McMahon’s appointment as Education Secretary comes at a pivotal moment for America’s schools. As debates over DEI, school choice, and civil rights intensify, her leadership will shape the future of federal education policy. While her business background and moderate rhetoric offer promise, the influence of the America First Policy Institute and Trump’s agenda will loom large over her decisions.

As McMahon prepares for her confirmation hearings, educators, policymakers, and families will be watching closely to see whether she charts a new course or reinforces the legacy of her predecessor. The stakes are high, and the direction of U.S. education hangs in the balance.