Linda McMahon’s WWE Background Shapes Her Bold Approach as Secretary of Education

As Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon has executed the goals of a brash man with a flair for the theatrical—skills she developed during her time at World Wrestling Entertainment.

Since assuming office on March 3, 2025, McMahon has brought a distinctive approach to leading the U.S. Department of Education, one shaped by her decades-long career in professional wrestling entertainment. Her tenure reflects a leadership style marked by bold initiatives and performative elements reminiscent of her WWE background.

McMahon’s career in wrestling began alongside her husband, Vince McMahon, when they founded Titan Sports, which later became World Wrestling Entertainment. She served as president from 1993 to 2000 and as chief executive officer from 1997 to 2009, overseeing the company’s transformation from a regional promotion into a global entertainment enterprise. During this period, she launched community outreach programs such as Get R.E.A.L. And SmackDown! Your Vote, which aimed to engage youth in civic participation.

Her transition into public service began with her appointment as administrator of the Small Business Administration in 2017, a role she held until 2019 during President Donald Trump’s first term. This experience paved the way for her nomination to lead the Department of Education, a move that surprised many in the education sector given her limited direct background in the field.

Observers have noted parallels between her time in WWE and her current role, particularly in how she navigates public perception and policy implementation. Some commentators have described her approach as theatrical, pointing to her ability to command attention and frame policy debates in dramatic terms—skills honed during years of producing scripted entertainment for live audiences.

McMahon’s confirmation as the 13th U.S. Secretary of Education came after a contentious hearing, during which senators questioned her qualifications and vision for American education. Despite skepticism about her experience in academia or K–12 policy, she emphasized her record in workforce development and organizational leadership as preparation for the role.

Since taking office, McMahon has aligned her priorities with broader administration goals, including efforts to reshape federal education policy and expand vocational training initiatives. Her leadership continues to draw attention not only for its substance but also for the unique lens through which she views governance—one informed by a career in an industry where spectacle and strategy are deeply intertwined.