Members press secretary on staff cuts, rehiring and outside influence after Musk meetings

Republican and Democratic members of the House Appropriations subcommittee questioned Education Secretary McMahon about recent staffing reductions at the department, the rehiring of some previously fired employees, and her meetings with private-sector figures including Elon Musk.

Representative Mark Pokan (identified in the hearing transcript with variations of his name) asked whether the secretary or outside advisors had made firing and rehiring decisions. McMahon said much of the restructuring occurred before she took office but added, “I run the department. Doge does not run the department.” She said she had met with Mr. Musk several times, both during the transition and after, and estimated she had met him “about 3 to 4 times” since taking the job.

Members raised concerns about background checks, whether outside hires had education credentials or classroom experience, and whether any contractors or new employees had access to sensitive borrower data. McMahon said those who are government employees are vetted “through the same process than any other government employee would” and that she did not know at the hearing the exact educational qualifications of specific hires but would follow up.

Why it matters: Staffing and contractor relationships affect departmental capacity to administer programs, protect sensitive data and carry out statutory responsibilities. Lawmakers pressed for transparency about the department’s hiring, vetting and contract arrangements.

Details and debate: Members said the department appeared to have fired thousands of employees and later reinstated some; McMahon said roughly 74 employees had been brought back since she returned. She described workforce reductions as part of a restructuring aimed at aligning staff with policy priorities.

Next steps: Lawmakers asked the secretary to provide details on hires, rehired employees, background checks, and whether any contracts with companies affiliated with private-sector advisers exist; McMahon said she would “get back to you” with more information.