ISTANBUL

US Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed that mass layoffs at the agency are the first step toward its eventual shutdown, in line with President Donald Trump’s mandate.

McMahon described the cuts to Fox News late Tuesday as necessary to eliminate "bureaucratic bloat" while ensuring critical programs continue uninterrupted.

“Yes, actually it is,” McMahon said when asked if the layoffs were the first step toward a total shutdown. “His (Trump's) directive to me, clearly, is to shut down the Department of Education, which we know we'll have to work with Congress ... to get that accomplished,” she said.

The Education Department announced Tuesday that nearly 50% of its workforce, or about 1,950 employees, will be laid off. Affected staff will be placed on administrative leave starting March 21, with full pay and benefits until June 9, followed by severance or retirement packages.

McMahon emphasized that the cuts are to retain “the right people” to ensure grants and appropriations are managed effectively.

The layoffs are part of Trump’s broader effort to streamline government operations and reduce federal spending.

Since taking office, Trump has repeatedly called for the elimination of the Education Department, arguing that states and local governments should manage education policy.