Senator Schmitt wants to remove DEI from the Pentagon.
Senator Eric Schmitt, a Republican from Missouri, has achieved significant success in pushing for amendments in the version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that recently passed the Senate Armed Services Committee. These amendments include a measure to permanently freeze the hiring of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)-related positions.
Additionally, Schmitt was able to secure an amendment for consideration that would prevent the Defense secretary from reauthorizing the Defense Advisory Committee on Diversity and Inclusion. He also successfully pushed for a roll call vote to ban DEI clauses in hiring contracts and an amendment prohibiting a DEI minor degree at the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Military Academy.
During a news conference with Republican Senators on border security issues at the U.S. Capitol, Schmitt emphasized the need to restore the military to a true meritocracy. He expressed concern over the increasing emphasis on DEI in the military, which he believes is contradictory to American values.
Schmitt highlighted that DEI programs are negatively impacting military recruitment efforts. He stated that the discriminatory ideology propagated through these programs, which he refers to as cultural Marxism, is deterring individuals from joining the military. Schmitt aims to reverse this trend and emphasize that everyone is welcome in the armed forces.
According to Schmitt, the focus on DEI is creating divisions within the military, separating individuals by race instead of emphasizing common goals, lethality, and national security. He highlighted the importance of unity and inclusivity in the military.
Despite facing opposition, Schmitt expressed optimism about the amendments receiving bipartisan support. He believes that the passage of these measures out of the committee indicates a shift in public opinion against DEI initiatives.
Schmitt hopes for continued support from Democratic colleagues when the NDAA package reaches the Senate floor for a full vote. He stressed the importance of prioritizing military readiness and efficiency without succumbing to political agendas.
The Senator criticized what he sees as a Democratic obsession with DEI, labeling it as discriminatory and divisive. He called for the elimination of such programs and ideologies from the military, citing feedback from uniformed personnel who oppose these initiatives.
As the debate over DEI in the military continues, Schmitt remains dedicated to advocating for a military free from what he perceives as discriminatory practices and political interference. His efforts aim to uphold the principles of meritocracy and inclusivity within the armed forces.
