Who is Linda McMahon? Ex WWE chief-turned Trump’s Education secretary

Linda McMahon has been confirmed as the new US Secretary of Education, securing a 51-45 vote in the Senate.

As a close Trump ally, she will now lead a department that the president has long sought to scale back. Her appointment signals a major shift in education policy, with the administration already rolling back diversity programmes, cutting funding, and promoting school choice.

During her confirmation hearing, McMahon took a more moderate stance than Trump’s rhetoric. She pledged to maintain funding for Pell grants, Title I schools, and loan forgiveness programmes but suggested shifting some functions to other government agencies.

The White House had considered directing the education secretary to reduce the agency maximally before McMahon's confirmation hearing. Her supporters urged delaying this order to avoid controversy during confirmation.

Who is Linda McMahon?

• McMahon, 76, is best known for her business career rather than education policy.
• She is the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)
• Served one year on Connecticut's state board of education
• Trustee at Sacred Heart University
• Led the Small Business Administration under Trump’s first term
• Major donor to Trump’s political campaigns
• Unsuccessful Senate candidate in 2010, 2012

Many critics argue that McMahon lacks the experience needed for the role, while supporters believe her leadership skills and business experience make her a strong choice for reform.

"I am deeply grateful to President Trump for his trust in me to serve in his Cabinet as Secretary of Education. I am prepared to lead the Department in this transformational time and embrace the challenge to improve the education system for the more than 100 million children and college students who deserve better," McMahon said after being confirmed.