In a rather amusing slip of the tongue, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon confused artificial intelligence (AI) with A.1. steak sauce during a recent panel discussion at the ASU+GSV education summit in San Diego. The incident occurred on April 8, 2025, and quickly became a topic of social media banter, highlighting the ongoing challenges and conversations surrounding education in America.
McMahon, who was discussing the potential benefits of AI in education, mistakenly referred to it as "A1" while emphasizing the importance of modern teaching tools. "I heard about a school system that’s going to start making sure that first graders, or even pre-Ks, have A1 teaching in every year," she stated, calling it a "wonderful thing." The mix-up was particularly notable as she had correctly identified AI earlier in her remarks.
In response to McMahon's gaffe, A.1. Original Sauce took to social media to capitalize on the moment. The brand posted an image on Instagram featuring a bottle of their sauce with a playful label reading, "For education purposes only," alongside the caption, "You heard her. Every school should have access to A.1." The post humorously suggested that early exposure to the sauce could be beneficial.
This isn't the first time McMahon has faced scrutiny regarding her knowledge of educational terminology. Just last month, she admitted during an interview with Fox News that she was unaware that IDEA stands for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, raising further questions about her qualifications for the role of Education Secretary.
McMahon's appointment to the position was met with skepticism, given her background as a former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and her limited experience in the education sector. Despite her unconventional path to the cabinet, McMahon was confirmed in a narrow Senate vote of 51-to-45 in early March 2025.
Her recent comments come in the wake of President Donald Trump's executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, a move that has sparked significant debate among educators and civil rights advocates. Critics argue that closing the department could undermine decades of progress in educational access and equality, while supporters claim it will allow for more localized control over education.
In a statement regarding the executive order, Trump expressed his desire for McMahon to "put herself out of a job," emphasizing his belief that federal control over education has failed to serve the needs of American students effectively. However, this approach has drawn sharp criticism from various groups, including the NAACP and the National Education Association, who have filed lawsuits against the administration's plans.
Janai Nelson, president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, condemned the executive order, arguing that it would disproportionately affect marginalized communities and hinder the federal government's ability to protect students from discrimination. She characterized the justification for the order as a "fabricated justification" that echoes a troubling history of segregation in education.
In Congress, Democratic representatives, including Jahana Hayes, have voiced their opposition to the dismantling of the Department of Education. Hayes has introduced legislation aimed at reversing Trump's order and investing in the department to ensure continued support for vulnerable students.
While McMahon's mix-up with AI and A.1. may have provided a moment of levity, it also underscores the serious discussions taking place about the future of education in the U.S. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of AI into classrooms remains a pressing topic. McMahon's comments, albeit muddled, reflect a broader conversation about how best to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
As the debate over the role of the federal government in education continues, McMahon's gaffe serves as a reminder of the importance of clarity and understanding in discussions about educational policy. Whether it’s AI or A.1., the focus should remain on what’s best for students and their learning experiences.
