Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, US Education Secretary Linda McMahon talk Returning Education to the States waiver in exclusive interview

July 8, 2026 - 01:52

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon sat down for an exclusive interview to discuss the "Returning Education to the States" waiver, a policy aimed at shifting control of federal education funds and oversight back to state governments. The conversation focused on how the waiver would allow Arkansas to bypass certain federal mandates, giving state leaders more flexibility in curriculum decisions, teacher certification, and school accountability.

Governor Sanders emphasized that the waiver is not about defunding education but about empowering local communities. "Parents and teachers know what is best for their students, not bureaucrats in Washington," she said. Secretary McMahon echoed that sentiment, noting that the Department of Education is exploring ways to reduce its footprint while maintaining civil rights protections. The waiver is part of a broader push by the current administration to decentralize education policy, though critics argue it could lead to uneven standards across states.

The interview also touched on the potential impact on rural districts, which often rely heavily on federal funding. Both leaders expressed confidence that the waiver would include safeguards to ensure disadvantaged students are not left behind. No timeline for the waiver's implementation was provided, but the officials indicated that Arkansas could serve as a pilot model for other states.