Several Oklahoma lawmakers have voiced their support for eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, echoing a campaign promise made by President-elect Donald Trump. They argue that education decisions should be made closer to home, empowering parents, teachers, and local administrators.

Representative Kevin Hern, Republican Policy Committee Chair-elect, believes education should be handled at the state level, a viewpoint shared by many Republicans since the Reagan era. Representative Josh Brecheen agrees, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles innovation and ingenuity in education.

Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters also backs the abolition of the federal department, having issued a memo in November preparing schools for this possibility. Walters contends that the federal government has exerted excessive control over the education system, imposing detrimental policies and dictating curriculum content.

Trump's campaign pledge to dismantle the Department of Education has gained traction, with notable figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, appointed by Trump to enhance government efficiency, endorsing the proposal.

While supporting the department's elimination, some Oklahoma Republicans, like Representative Frank Lucas, are concerned about the potential impact on federal funding for state and local schools, particularly for essential programs like reading and special education. He questions how these resources will be secured for local school districts if the department is abolished.

Representative Tom Cole shares similar concerns, highlighting the importance of federal Impact Aid, which provides significant funding to Oklahoma schools. While critical of the department's bureaucracy and policies, he acknowledges the challenge of securing the necessary Senate votes for its abolition.