Glenn Grothman: “This amendment would prevent the Secretary of Defense from creating any new DEI positions or filling any vacant DEI…”

“This amendment would prevent the Secretary of Defense from creating any new DEI positions or filling any vacant DEI positions within the Department of Defense. Over the last few years, the DEI bureaucracy across the Department of Defense has infiltrated every unit, command, and school. Even as much of the country recognizes that the ideology of DEI is opposed to a society based on merit, the Department of Defense has dug in its heels. From transgender Pride patches on military uniforms to DEI steering committees at DODEA schools and a record $162 million dedicated to DEI activities in the President's FY25 budget, these activities continue to indoctrinate and divide. Elevating immutable characteristics like race and color over all other factors is blatantly discriminatory. It harms public confidence in our military and makes us a less lethal fighting force. For our national security, we must uphold the ideals of our country and put merit, hard work, dedication, and service above all. To do this, we must eliminate the DEI apparatus. Mr. Chair, I urge all Members to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time. Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to the amendment. The Acting CHAIR. The gentlewoman from Virginia is recognized for 5 minutes. Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr.…”