Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, WWE co-founder and his transition co-chair, as education secretary. A close ally of Trump, McMahon previously led the Small Business Administration during his first term and contributed millions to his campaigns.
Trump announced the nomination on Truth Social, praising McMahon’s leadership experience and understanding of education and business to inspire future generations. Known for his criticism of the Department of Education, Trump has vowed to dismantle it—a potential responsibility for McMahon.
This announcement follows Trump’s recent picks of Mehmet Oz to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Howard Lutnick for commerce secretary, highlighting a trend of appointing loyal supporters to key cabinet positions.
McMahon co-founded WWE with her husband in 1980, stepping down as CEO in 2009 for an unsuccessful Senate run. Despite minimal experience in education, she briefly served on Connecticut’s board of education from 2009 to 2010. She currently chairs the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute, making her Senate confirmation likely.
Trump commended McMahon for championing parents’ rights and her commitment to returning educational control to the states. However, her nomination comes amid a lawsuit accusing WWE leadership, including McMahon and her husband, of failing to prevent abuse by a ringside announcer. The McMahons deny the allegations, calling them baseless and defamatory.
NewsGlobal Reporters