Overview
- Department records reported by multiple outlets show Education Secretary Linda McMahon requested $43,278.64 to buy a new desk, conference table, chairs and other furnishings for her new office.
- McMahon’s staff said the existing furniture 'cannot be configurationally or aesthetically integrated into the agency’s new office space' and so new pieces are needed for the smaller headquarters.
- Senators Patty Murray and Tammy Baldwin sent a formal letter urging cancellation and called the purchase frivolous given broad staff cuts and service reductions at the department.
- The department defended the spending through a press spokesperson who said the relocation will save taxpayers millions in annual operating costs and that new federal offices need basic furniture.
- Reporters note the purchase sits inside a larger push by McMahon and President Trump to shrink the Education Department but also underscore that formally closing the agency would require legislation from Congress.