Attorney General Kathy Jennings, along with 20 other attorneys general, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to prevent the dismantling of the federal Department of Education. The administration recently announced plans to cut approximately 50% of the department's workforce as part of its goal for a "total shutdown."
Jennings' lawsuit aims to halt these actions and ensure continued support for millions of students. She stated, "The Trump administration is picking the pockets of those who can least afford it... This is about enriching people who have never set foot in a public school. It will devastate red states and blue states alike—and it’s illegal. We’re suing to stop it."
Delaware State Education Association President Stephanie Ingram criticized the cuts, saying they are not about efficiency or cost savings but rather an attack on public education systems and programs that benefit all students, particularly those in poverty or with disabilities.
Federal education programs currently serve nearly 50 million K-12 students and over 12 million postsecondary students across the country. These programs are vital for students in rural areas, low-income families, and those with disabilities.
The proposed dismantling would severely impact Delawareans by crippling essential functions within the Department. Those most affected include students needing special resources, victims relying on civil rights protections, and financial aid recipients facing increased challenges accessing loans and grants.
According to Jennings, these actions by the administration are both illegal and unconstitutional since Congress authorizes the Department with various laws establishing its programs and funding.
Joining Jennings in this legal challenge are attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin,Vermont,and the District of Columbia.