Sweeping Cuts: Trump’s Education Department Overhaul

The U.S. Department of Education plans mass layoffs as part of President Trump's directive for governmental downsizing. This initiative includes significant staff reductions, with employees being placed on administrative leave. The administration has proposed buyout programs to minimize legal issues and meet the mandated deadline.

In a bold move to streamline federal operations, the U.S. Department of Education announced plans to lay off nearly half its workforce. This step is part of President Donald Trump's broader mandate to reduce government size, with affected employees placed on administrative leave starting March 21.

The widespread terminations align with the department's mission of enhancing efficiency and accountability, according to Education Secretary Linda McMahon. However, critics, including the American Federation of Government Employees, argue these cuts undermine the dedication of public servants.

Other governmental departments, including the FDA and the Social Security Administration, have implemented buyout programs to facilitate voluntary departures, offering lump-sum payments and early retirement options. This approach is seen as a strategy to comply with the administration's deadlines while minimizing legal pushback.

(With inputs from agencies.)