The article discusses Linda McMahon’s nomination by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education. McMahon, a former wrestling executive and businesswoman, had previously indicated on a 2009 vetting questionnaire for a Connecticut state education board position that she held a bachelor’s degree in education, a claim later revealed to be false.
Instead, she graduated with a degree in French from East Carolina University, though her program was designed to prepare teachers. The error was corrected in 2010.
McMahon’s nomination has revived scrutiny over her qualifications and past controversies, including her association with World Wrestling Entertainment WWE and a recent lawsuit involving allegations of sexual abuse involving a former WWE employee.
Despite these issues, Trump praised her leadership and advocacy for school choice policies. However, McMahon has limited experience in education compared to previous education secretaries, which has led to concerns among critics, particularly regarding her stance on education reform.
Supporters highlight McMahon’s experience as head of the Small Business Administration and her focus on apprenticeships and expanding Pell Grant funding for non-traditional educational programs.
Meanwhile, opponents, including some congressional Democrats, have expressed reservations about her potential to support Trump’s controversial education agenda.