The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has signaled a significant policy shift following the election of President-elect Donald Trump. In a move that underscores this change, the agency announced it would close its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) by December 2024.
“In recent weeks, the FBI took steps to close the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), effective by December 2024,” the FBI confirmed to Fox News.
The decision comes amid growing criticism from Republican leaders, including Sen. Marsha Blackburn, who sent a scathing letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray earlier this month. In her letter, Blackburn accused the agency of prioritizing “radical” DEI practices over its core mission of protecting Americans, citing the recent terrorist attack in New Orleans as evidence.
Senator Blackburn’s Sharp Criticism
Sen. Blackburn’s letter expressed outrage over the New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, in which the suspect was reportedly found with weapons, improvised explosive devices, and an ISIS flag.
“While the facts surrounding this unconscionable attack continue to emerge, what we know is deeply troubling: the suspect was in possession of weapons, improvised explosive devices, and an ISIS flag. This horrific incident constitutes a blatant act of terror on the American homeland,” Blackburn wrote.
She went on to claim that under Wray’s leadership, the FBI had placed DEI initiatives above its critical role in national security.
“Your decision to prioritize politics, pop culture, or almost anything else over your mission to protect the public has put Americans in harm’s way, and the January 1 terror attack was the inevitable consequence,” Blackburn added.
“Woke Policies” Under Fire
Blackburn’s letter wasn’t the only critique aimed at the FBI’s DEI programs. Critics argue that such initiatives have become a distraction from the agency’s primary mission.
The FBI’s DEI webpage emphasizes its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. According to the agency, diversity was added as a core value in 2015.
“We believe that differences in thought and belief, in race and religion, in orientation, and in ability contribute to more effective decision-making, drive innovation, and enhance the employee experience,” the page reads.
However, Nicole Parker, a former FBI special agent and now a Fox News contributor, expressed concerns about what she called the “weaponization” of social justice within the FBI.
A Former Agent’s Perspective
“I appreciate all forms of diversity. Make no mistake of that,” Parker said. “What I do not appreciate is when there is a constant push for social justice weaponization at the FBI, whose top priorities are to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution.”
Parker cited testimony from FBI Director Wray, who warned that national threats are at “an all-time high.” She argued that focusing on DEI initiatives detracts from the agency’s ability to respond to these threats effectively.
“DEI is a dangerous distraction,” Parker emphasized. “I have no issue in celebrating your heritage, gender, or religion. But that should be done on your own time, not with taxpayer dollars while on official Bureau time.”
The Call for Meritocracy
Parker called for the FBI to prioritize hiring the most qualified candidates, advocating for a merit-based approach.
“The FBI needs to focus on hiring the best and brightest based solely on meritocracy. Americans deserve the best,” Parker said.
She also criticized the agency’s divisive focus on internal groups and initiatives, urging a unified approach to fighting crime.
“The FBI should be focused on being one united force in fighting crime,” she concluded, “not divided by various groups and divisions.”
A Shift Under Trump’s Leadership
The closure of the DEI office marks a pivotal moment in the FBI’s organizational direction. As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, his administration’s stance on dismantling “woke” policies within federal agencies appears to be taking hold.
With public safety concerns at an all-time high, the decision reflects a broader push to refocus federal agencies on their fundamental missions. For the FBI, this means a renewed commitment to protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution.