Pew Research: Americans Split on the Dept of Education

As debates over curriculum, parental rights, and federal versus local control continue to shape education policy, the U.S. Department of Education has increasingly found itself at the center of political discourse. While the department’s actual authority over local schools is limited, its influence in funding, civil rights enforcement, and national priorities makes it a focal point in conversations about the future of American education. A new Pew Research Center survey highlights just how divided public opinion is on the agency’s role and performance.

Key Findings:

• Overall sentiment:

  • 48% of U.S. adults view the Department of Education unfavorably

  • 38% have a favorable opinion

• Partisan divide:

  • 69% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents view the department unfavorably

    • Nearly half (48%) hold a very unfavorable view

  • 58% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning adults view the department favorably

• Age differences:

  • Adults under 30 are more likely to view the department positively

  • Young Democrats are especially supportive

  • Younger Republicans are less critical than older Republicans

• Context:

  • The department plays a key role in funding, civil rights enforcement, and shaping national education policy

  • It has limited authority over local school decisions

• Broader trend:

  • Public opinion of federal agencies often reflects partisan alignment and changes with political leadership

As education remains a key issue in upcoming elections, these findings suggest the department’s image will continue to mirror the nation’s broader ideological divides.