Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon and celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz have been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for significant positions in his upcoming administration. McMahon, a long-time ally of Trump, is set to be nominated as Secretary of Education. This follows her previous role as the head of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term. McMahon has been a prominent supporter of Trump, contributing substantial funds to his campaigns. Notably, Trump has criticized the Department of Education and expressed intentions to shut it down, a challenge McMahon might be tasked with if confirmed.
Additionally, Mehmet Oz, known for his television presence and health-related advice, has been selected to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Trump’s pattern of selecting loyal supporters for key cabinet roles is evident with both nominations, along with Howard Lutnick for commerce secretary.
While McMahon lacks a deep background in education, her experience on Connecticut’s state board of education and her role at the America First Policy Institute indicate her alignment with the administration’s goals. Trump has indicated that McMahon’s nomination represents a commitment to parental rights in education, suggesting a shift of power from federal to state control. Republicans have voiced concerns about the Department of Education promoting what they term “woke” ideologies, advocating instead for state governance of educational matters.
However, McMahon’s nomination comes amidst controversy due to a recent lawsuit alleging that she and others at WWE failed to protect young boys from abuse by a former announcer, claims that the McMahon family contests as baseless.
Overall, these nominations reflect Trump’s approach of reinforcing his administration with trusted allies while pursuing an aggressive agenda for reforming federal education and healthcare policies.
This new cabinet showcases Trump’s commitment to his campaign promises as he seeks to reshape federal institutions by placing individuals with which he shares a strong rapport into leadership positions. With the Republican majority in the Senate, McMahon’s confirmation may reflect a broader strategic shift toward localized control over education—a move that could resonate with certain voter bases.