Trump Admin Investigates DEI Practices at Over 50 Universities

The Trump administration is investigating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at over 50 universities across the United States. 

The Details: The Department of Education is looking into allegations of racial discrimination in these programs, which could lead to institutions losing federal funding over "race-based preferences." The investigations are a part of the administration's broader efforts to dismantle DEI programs, and center around universities that have partnerships with the Ph.D. Project, a nonprofit focused on bringing underrepresented communities into academia. 

For Context: Following a Supreme Court ruling in 2023 that struck down affirmative action in college admissions, the Trump administration widened its scrutiny to scholarships, mentorship programs, and other university policies perceived to favor specific racial groups. 

How the Media Covered It: The New York Times (Lean Left bias) called the Ph.D. program a “target” and reported the group’s mission statement and business partners. National Review News (Lean Right) also included details about the Ph.D. project, an extended quote from Education Secretary Linda McMahon, and called the investigation a “major step in its push to eradicate left-wing diversity, equity, and inclusions programming.” Newsweek (Center bias) reported the investigation as an “aggressive expansion of a Republican-led push against DEI initiatives in higher education” and included that the administration is attempting to force an international studies department at Columbia University into academic receivership. 

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