Linda McMahon, wrestling industry billionaire, confirmed as US education secretary

US Senate confirmed Trump ally and ex-wrestling executive as chief of department president wants dismantled

The US Senate has confirmed Linda McMahon as the nation's next education secretary, entrusting the former wrestling executive with a department marked for dismantling by Donald Trump.

The 76-year-old billionaire businesswoman and longtime Trump ally was approved 51-45, reflecting deep divisions over her qualifications and the administration's education agenda. McMahon, who previously led the small business administration during Trump's first term, now faces the paradoxical task of running an agency while simultaneously working toward its potential elimination.