On February 7, 2025, a group of Democratic lawmakers, including Representatives Maxwell Alejandro Frost and Maxine Waters, attempted to enter the U.S. Department of Education headquarters in Washington, D.C., but were denied access by security personnel. The lawmakers sought a meeting with Acting Education Secretary Denise L. Carter to discuss concerns over potential budget cuts and the Trump administration's consideration of dismantling the department. This incident has heightened tensions surrounding the administration's education policies and the role of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, in evaluating federal agencies.