Rep. Juan Vargas Statement Following the Denial of Entry to the Department of Education
WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) joined his colleagues in demanding answers from the Trump Administration following reports that the Administration is preparing an executive order to eliminate the Department of Education. Despite identifying themselves as members of Congress, Representative Vargas and his colleagues were denied entry to the Department of Education building. In response to being turned away, Representative Vargas released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s attempts to eliminate the Department.
“The law is clear: President Trump doesn't have the authority to eliminate the Department of Education. Yet he’s determined to ignore Congress at every turn.
This is an illegal power grab. Trump wants to take funds away from teachers, schools, and children to pay for tax breaks for billionaires, like Elon Musk.
Moves like these affect students across the board, but they specifically hurt the most vulnerable –including low-income students, first-generation college students, and people with disabilities.
I will do everything in my power to fight against these attacks, make college more accessible, and make sure all students have the support they need to thrive. Our students and families deserve better.”
The members’ visit was in wake of recent decisions by the Trump Administration. These decisions include the pauses of student loans and grants, as well as attempts to eliminate federal programs.
Over the past few weeks, the Trump administration has also signed multiple executive orders targeting educational institutions, including an Executive Order rescinding a policy providing support for Hispanic-Serving Institutions.
###