Trump Appoints Former WWE Executive Linda McMahon as Education Secretary

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, a former WWE executive and seasoned public servant, as the next U.S. Secretary of Education. McMahon, widely recognized for her leadership and advocacy for school choice, is expected to play a central role in shaping education policy under the Trump administration.

In his announcement, Trump lauded McMahon’s extensive experience, highlighting her tenure as board chair of the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), where she championed school choice initiatives across 12 states. “Linda will fight tirelessly to expand ‘Choice’ to every state in America and empower parents to make the best education decisions for their families,” he stated.

McMahon’s contributions to education include serving on the Connecticut Board of Education, overseeing public and technical high schools statewide, and a 16-year term on Sacred Heart University’s board of trustees. These roles underscore her commitment to improving educational opportunities at multiple levels.

Best known for her time as CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), a company she co-founded with her husband Vince McMahon, Linda McMahon transitioned into public service after stepping away from the wrestling world. From 2017 to 2019, she led the Small Business Administration (SBA), where she focused on fostering small business growth and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Her political engagement has expanded in recent years. As AFPI chair, McMahon pushed for education reform and policies that enhance parental control over their children’s education. Her influence extends further as co-chair of the Trump-Vance Transition Team, solidifying her position as a key figure in Republican policy-making.

In her role as education secretary, McMahon is anticipated to prioritize expanding school choice, decentralizing federal control, and empowering states to shape their education systems.