Conservatives Push Back Against Trump’s Education Nominee Penny Schwinn

President Donald Trump is coming under fire from conservative circles, particularly on social media, following his nomination of Dr. Penny Schwinn for the role of Deputy Secretary at the Department of Education. Critics, including an education activist who spoke with Fox News Digital, argue that Schwinn’s views and policies are too far removed from traditional conservative values and Trump’s agenda.

Shock and Concern from Tennessee Activists

“Being from Tennessee and being under Schwinn and her Berkeley-educated, radical views, I was actually shocked when I heard that she was being nominated by President Trump,” stated Laurie Cardoza Moore. A member of the Tennessee Textbook and Instructional Materials Quality Commission and founder of Proclaiming Justice To the Nations, Moore expressed disbelief that Schwinn’s policies align with Trump’s values.

The Nomination Announcement

Trump announced his nomination of Schwinn, who previously served as the Commissioner of Education for Tennessee, in a post on Truth Social. He described Schwinn as “committed to delivering the American Dream to the next Generation by returning Education BACK TO THE STATES.” However, many, like Moore, argue that Schwinn’s record does not reflect this commitment.

Moore’s Concerns

Moore voiced her strong opposition to Schwinn’s nomination, calling on Trump to rescind it. “I fought for a couple of years for Gov. Lee to call for her resignation because of her policies and values,” Moore stated. She accused Schwinn of exposing Tennessee children to inappropriate content in school libraries and implementing controversial educational policies during her tenure in Tennessee, including the introduction of a curriculum that critics claim promotes anti-Semitic messages.

“Under her leadership, the children in Tennessee have been subjected to pornographic and anti-Semitic content in library books. For example, ‘Me and Earl and the Dying Girl’ was one of the books. She also pushed the Wit and Wisdom curriculum, which has been criticized for its alignment with critical race theory,” she added.

Controversial Policies and Hiring Practices

Moore raised alarms about Schwinn’s hiring practices as well, notably the appointment of Rachael Maves, a math expert who advocated for “math equity” in California. Critics argue that such policies serve as a façade for promoting critical race theory in classrooms.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

The backlash against Schwinn’s nomination has also cropped up on social media, with various conservatives echoing Moore’s sentiments. Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck stated, “President Trump needs the full story on Penny Schwinn’s education history in TN.” He urged Trump to reconsider his decision, citing Schwinn’s core values that focus on “Equity for all” and arguing against her alignment with Trump’s objectives.

Notably, former NCAA swimmer and commentator Riley Gaines criticized Schwinn as well, remarking, “Anytime someone claims their desired outcome is equity, understand they’re pushing a communist agenda. NO to Penny Schwinn.”

Support for Schwinn

Despite the criticism, Schwinn has defenders among conservatives. Journalist Chris Rufo, recognized for his critiques of critical race theory, argued that Trump and Secretary McMahon selected Schwinn for a reason, encouraging unity in support of her appointment. GOP Sen. Tim Scott also praised Schwinn, expressing confidence in her ability to help advance education policies that empower parents and prioritize students.

Trump’s Mandate: A Divided Opinion

Many conservatives argue that Trump retains a mandate from voters to appoint those he believes are best suited for these significant roles. Nonetheless, Moore remains skeptical, labeling Schwinn as a “red flag” who may stray from Trump’s plan to reduce the size or even eliminate the Department of Education. “Somehow somebody has put the bug in Trump’s ear that he should nominate her,” Moore concluded. “Penny Schwinn is the last person who should lead education in our country.”

A Future Uncertain

As Trump’s administration navigates the complexities of education reform, the nomination of Schwinn has highlighted deeper divisions within the conservative base. With advocates and opponents voicing their concerns, the outcome of this nomination could have lasting implications for the direction of education policy in America. The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the conversation surrounding educational values and leadership will continue to unfold in the coming weeks.