Who's Linda McMahon—WWE co-founder—Trump's pick for US education secretary

Who's Linda McMahon—WWE co-founder—Trump's pick for US education secretary
20 Nov 2024

President-elect Donald Trump has picked Linda McMahon, former head of Small Business Administration (SBA) and co-founder of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), as his pick for Secretary of Education.

The announcement comes as Trump plans to scale back federal oversight in the Department of Education and hand over its functions to state governments.

"We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES, and Linda will spearhead that effort," he said in a statement.

McMahon's political journey and education advocacy
Political background

McMahon was the SBA administrator from 2017 to 2019 during Trump's first term.

She was first eyed for a position in the Commerce Department before being selected for education.

Despite failing to win the US Senate seat from Connecticut in 2010 and 2012, McMahon has remained a prominent political figure, chairing the America First Policy Institute and co-leading Trump's transition team.

McMahon's WWE controversy and education advocacy
WWE lawsuit

McMahon and her husband Vince McMahon, co-founders of WWE, were recently named in a lawsuit alleging abuse within the organization.

However, despite the controversy, she remains a close ally of Trump.

Her work with education began in 2009 when she served on the Connecticut Board of Education.

She has also been an advocate for universal school choice through the America First Policy Institute.

McMahon's appointment follows Trump's presidential victory
Senate approval

Trump has praised McMahon for her support of parents' rights and school choice, saying she will "fight tirelessly" to expand them across the country.

Her nomination comes after Trump defeated Kamala Harris to win his second presidential term.

However, before she officially takes office as Secretary of Education, McMahon's appointment will have to be approved by the Senate.