Trump Signs Executive Order to Dismantle Department of Education

President Donald Trump made a bold move toward fulfilling a key campaign promise on Monday. He signed an executive order to begin dismantling the Department of Education, aiming to shift control of education back to the states.

A Historic Move—With a Distraction

Standing before an enthusiastic crowd, Trump celebrated what he called a long-overdue action. However, the focus quickly shifted when cameras captured a visible bruise on his hand, reigniting public speculation about his health.

This isn’t the first time such concerns have surfaced. A similar bruise appeared in February during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. At the time, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the concern, blaming it on Trump’s packed schedule. “He’s constantly working and shaking hands all day,” she said.

Health Questions Persist

Despite those reassurances, questions about the 78-year-old’s health have continued. Just last week, Trump appeared to limp while walking onstage with Lara Trump at a public event. Critics also point to moments where he seems to struggle with articulation or reading from scripts.

On Monday, during the signing ceremony, Trump briefly stumbled while reading a section of the executive order. Critics quickly seized on the moment, but his supporters remained focused on the policy itself.

“We’re Failing Our Kids,” Says Trump

Trump used the moment to highlight what he views as the federal government’s failure in education. “Seventy percent of fourth graders aren’t proficient in reading or math,” he said, calling for urgent change.

He also drew comparisons to China, arguing that large countries can still maintain strong educational systems. “Size is no excuse,” Trump declared.

What the Executive Order Does

The order won’t shut down the Department of Education immediately. Congress must approve that move. However, it does signal a sharp reduction in the department’s power and influence.

Many conservatives have long called for this shift. They argue that local governments, not Washington bureaucrats, should control education decisions.

One of Trump’s Most Ambitious Policy Moves Yet

With this executive action, Trump has opened the door to what may become one of his administration’s most significant policy battles. Whether Congress will back the move remains uncertain.

But one thing is clear—Trump is prepared to fig.ht for it.