Trump Administration Plans to Eliminate Head Start in Upcoming HHS Budget Proposal
In a controversial and potentially devastating move, former President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to eliminate the Head Start program as part of the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) next proposed budget.
The long-running initiative, which has provided millions of toddlers from low-income families with early education, nutrition, and health services since its inception in 1965, would be completely defunded, according to early budget drafts reviewed by insiders.
“This is a direct attack on vulnerable children and working-class families,” said a senior education advocate. “Head Start is not just a preschool program — it’s a lifeline.”
The proposed cut is expected to trigger a firestorm of opposition from educators, healthcare professionals, and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. For decades, Head Start has been widely praised for its role in improving school readiness, reducing developmental gaps, and offering critical support to families struggling with poverty.
The Trump team, however, argues that the program has grown bloated and inefficient, claiming that educational outcomes have not justified the nearly $11 billion annual investment. A campaign spokesperson said the former president’s goal is to “streamline government spending and shift focus toward local and private solutions.”
But critics aren’t buying it. Advocacy groups warn that cutting Head Start could leave hundreds of thousands of children without access to crucial early learning and healthcare resources, disproportionately affecting minority and rural communities.
Congressional Democrats have already signaled plans to fight back. “We will not allow this administration to dismantle one of the most successful programs for at-risk children,” said one House member.
As the HHS budget proposal makes its way through the approval process, the fate of Head Start — and the futures of countless young children — hangs in the balance.