Laura Ingraham Slams Department of Education's Failures on Fox News

Laura Ingraham's Critique of the Department of Education

Fox News host Laura Ingraham recently delivered a pointed critique of the Department of Education, arguing that the federal agency has failed American children. On her show 'The Ingraham Angle,' she addressed what she sees as glaring shortcomings in the education system, pointing to poor academic outcomes and bureaucratic inefficiencies as evidence of the department's ineffectiveness. Her commentary reflects a growing concern among many Americans about the state of public education and the role of federal oversight in schools.

Ingraham opened her segment by highlighting the persistent struggles in student performance across the country. She emphasized that despite billions of dollars in funding, many students are not achieving basic proficiency in core subjects like reading and math. Her argument centers on the idea that the Department of Education, established to improve educational standards, has instead become a bloated entity that hinders progress through overregulation and misplaced priorities.

Key Points from Ingraham's Analysis

At around the 2:15 mark of the video, Ingraham stated, 'It's self-evident the Department of Education failed our children.' She argued that the agency's track record shows little improvement in educational outcomes over the decades since its inception. Ingraham pointed to statistics indicating that a significant percentage of students in urban and rural schools alike are not meeting grade-level expectations, a situation she attributes to federal mismanagement rather than a lack of funding or local effort.

Further into the discussion, near the 5:30 timestamp, Ingraham criticized the department for what she described as pushing ideological agendas over practical learning. She suggested that curricula influenced by federal guidelines often prioritize social issues over foundational skills, leaving students unprepared for real-world challenges. Her remarks resonate with those who believe that education should focus on core academics rather than broader cultural or political narratives.

Call for Reform and Local Control

Ingraham also made a strong case for reducing the federal government's role in education. Around the 8:10 point in her segment, she advocated for returning control to state and local authorities, arguing that communities are better equipped to address the unique needs of their students. She expressed frustration with what she sees as one-size-fits-all policies emanating from Washington, which she believes stifle innovation and accountability at the local level.

Her commentary aligns with recent moves by the Trump administration to reevaluate the Department of Education's scope. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, there has been a push to streamline federal involvement and empower states to make decisions about curriculum, funding, and school management. Ingraham's support for this direction underscores a belief that decentralizing education could lead to better outcomes for students and more efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

Response to Democratic Defense of the Department

Toward the end of her segment, at approximately the 10:45 mark, Ingraham took aim at Democratic efforts to defend the Department of Education. She argued that such defenses often ignore the data showing stagnant or declining student performance. Her critique suggests that political motivations, rather than genuine concern for educational quality, drive much of the opposition to reform. She urged viewers to look at the facts and question whether the current system truly serves the interests of children and families.

Ingraham's remarks come at a time when debates over education policy are intensifying. With recent announcements from Education Secretary Linda McMahon about cutting bureaucratic bloat within the department, as discussed in a separate interview on 'The Ingraham Angle' on March 12, 2025, there is a clear alignment between Ingraham's views and the administration's goals. The focus on reducing staff and refocusing priorities at the federal level mirrors the host's call for a leaner, more effective approach to education governance.

In conclusion, Laura Ingraham's segment on 'The Ingraham Angle' offers a sharp assessment of the Department of Education's failures, advocating for significant reform and a shift toward local control. Her arguments are grounded in concerns about student outcomes and fiscal responsibility, issues that resonate deeply with many Americans frustrated by the current state of public education. As discussions about the future of the department continue, her voice adds to a growing chorus calling for meaningful change to ensure that children receive the quality education they deserve.