A federal judge has issued a temporary halt to a controversial executive order that sought to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The sweeping plan aimed to close the department and redistribute its core functions to other federal agencies.
This would have moved responsibilities like student loan management to the Treasury and special education oversight to Health and Human Services. The order also called for the elimination of thousands of federal jobs, promising a major reorganization of education policy.
Critics, including states and civil rights groups, swiftly filed a lawsuit. They argued the president lacks the unilateral authority to dissolve a cabinet-level department established by Congress, warning the plan would create administrative chaos.
The judge agreed, issuing a preliminary injunction that pauses the order. The ruling reinstates affected employees and prevents any further transfer of the department’s duties or funding for the time being.
The court emphasized that such a fundamental restructuring alters legislative frameworks and exceeds executive power. This decision protects key programs, including federal student loans and civil rights enforcement, which impact millions.
Political reactions are divided. Progressives applaud the ruling for safeguarding public education, while conservatives view it as judicial overreach, arguing the plan would empower states.
The administration has announced its intention to appeal. The final outcome will set a significant precedent regarding presidential authority over the structure of federal agencies.
