Can a President Really Shut Down a Federal Agency?
Mar 24, 2025News of President Trump’s recent order to close the Department of Education has sent waves of confusion and concern across the federal workforce. If you're a federal employee—even if you don’t work at Education—this kind of dramatic directive can trigger fear about job stability and the rule of law. Let’s pause, take a breath, and break this down mindfully.
What Just Happened?
President Trump reportedly issued an executive order directing the Secretary of Education to dismantle the agency. However, there's a major legal flaw in this move: only Congress has the constitutional authority to create or eliminate federal departments. Article I of the U.S. Constitution gives that power to the legislative branch—not the President.
The Department of Education was established by Congress in 1979. That means an executive order cannot lawfully shut it down on its own. So while this announcement may feel shocking, the actual legal power behind it is extremely limited.
Why It Still Matters
Even though the order can’t legally dismantle the agency without Congress, it could still cause harm. It sows uncertainty, could freeze budgets, trigger staff cuts, or disrupt federal programs—particularly those tied to civil rights and education funding. And of course, it sets the stage for a long legal battle.
If you're a federal employee, this may not directly affect your agency, but it’s still a signal of instability at the top. These are the moments when a calm, proactive mindset is your best tool.
Mindfulness and Career Protection Go Hand-in-Hand
When the federal workplace feels uncertain, grounding yourself is not just a wellness tool—it’s a professional asset. Practicing mindfulness helps you respond strategically instead of reactively. It helps you focus, plan, and preserve your peace of mind—no matter what’s happening on the Hill.
That’s exactly why we created The Mindful Federal Employee Power Hub Membership—a resource designed specifically for federal workers navigating tough moments like this. Inside, you'll find practical tools to reduce stress, understand your rights, and stay informed about legal changes that affect your job.
Stay Informed, Not Alarmed
Legal challenges to this order are already underway. In all likelihood, courts will block or severely limit its effects. So please, don’t panic. But do stay engaged.
We’re here to offer calm, clear updates as the story unfolds. Subscribe to our newsletter, explore the Power Hub Membership, and know that you're not alone. There is a mindful way forward.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.