“Biden Needs To Go Now” – Pentagon Faces Backlash Over $114 Million for “Woke” Dei Initiatives

Gabriel RomanDec 1, 2023

Minute Read

The Biden administration faces scrutiny as the Department of Defense (DOD) proposes a $114 million budget for diversity and equity initiatives. This development is part of the DOD’s fiscal year 2024 budget request. It emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). However, critics argue that it politicizes the military and distracts from its primary mission.

DOD Emphasizes DEIA in Budget Proposal

The DOD’s 2024 budget reveals a significant focus on DEIA. This includes investments in programs dealing with sexual assault and harassment. They are also investing in suicide prevention and insider threat programs. To some, this move highlights the agency’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment within the armed forces.

Values-Led Policy Making

A recent Pentagon report states that DEI principles are integral to the department’s policy-making. The report states, “The Department will lead with our values – building diversity, equity, and inclusion into everything we do.” These new developments suggest a strategic shift towards these values.

Leadership Accountability for an Inclusive Environment

The Pentagon report emphasizes that leaders at all levels are responsible for creating an inclusive climate. This approach involves promoting diversity, preventing misconduct, and ensuring no retaliation against those who file complaints. They are aiming to enhance global joint warfighter capabilities.

Broadening the Scope

This development reflects a comprehensive approach to creating an inclusive workplace beyond traditional DEI boundaries. By focusing on accessibility, the DoD is committed to providing equal opportunities for all personnel. They are acknowledging the varied needs and challenges within their workforce.

Republican Pushback on Pentagon’s DEI Agenda

The Pentagon’s focus on DEI initiatives has met with vocal opposition from House Republicans. Following the Pentagon’s failure to pass its sixth consecutive audit, Republicans highlight this issue, arguing that such a significant investment in DEI initiatives could detract from more pressing military concerns. They express concern that this focus may divert resources and attention from vital military readiness and recruitment aspects.

Persistent Debate Over Equity Investment in Defense

Critics argue that this focus on equity and diversity may overshadow essential operational needs. These include maintaining ammunition supplies and ensuring financial accountability. This ongoing controversy reflects a broader discussion about the balance between fostering an inclusive military environment and addressing core defense requirements.

Representative Boebert’s Critical Stance on DEI Funding

Congresswoman Lauren Boebert has voiced strong skepticism regarding the Pentagon’s proposed DEI budget. In light of the recent audit failure, she questions the justification for a significant investment in DEI programs. Boebert’s concerns underscore a broader skepticism among some lawmakers about allocating defense funds towards non-essential programs.

Congressman Bishop’s Call for Oversight

Representative Dan Bishop from North Carolina emphasizes the need for rigorous Congressional oversight of the Pentagon’s budget allocation, especially its funding for DEI initiatives. He argues that the military’s primary focus should remain on national defense and preparedness rather than what he describes as “woke training seminars.” This reflects a viewpoint that prioritizes traditional military functions over newer initiatives.

Alarming Views on Pentagon’s Focus Shift

The Pentagon’s prioritization of DEI initiatives has drawn criticism for potentially undermining its core mission. Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer of Missouri points out the paradox of requesting funds for DEI amid international conflicts and hostage crises. He suggests that such a focus could lead to a misallocation of resources.

DEI and Military Effectiveness

The public is deeply divided on the Pentagon’s DEI funding, especially its impact on military effectiveness. Some comments, like “Military members do not need sex changes,” highlight people’s skepticism. Another user remarked, “Be normal or don’t join the military… it’s not a right to serve.”

Where Does the Money Go?

The allocation of $114 million for DEI initiatives has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the specifics of its use. Critiques include remarks like, “It takes $114 million just to tell people to be more inclusive… I don’t understand where this money is going,” suggesting confusion and skepticism about the expenditure’s justification. Another user commented, “Why do they need 114 million for this? Isn’t behavior taught… what are they doing buying torture products to force people into this?”

A Facade for Discrimination

Some members of the public view DEI efforts as counterproductive. One comment, “DEI is a smokescreen for racism and discrimination,” suggests that instead of addressing issues of inequality, these initiatives might worsen them. This perspective argues that DEI initiatives could be masking deeper systemic issues within the military rather than effectively addressing them.

Critique of the Administration’s Priorities

Criticism of the Biden administration’s focus on DEI in the military includes remarks like, “Jeez, why not take care of something tangible, like maintaining the border?” This comment illustrates the belief that prioritizing DEI detracts from essential military objectives. They argue it could potentially undermine both the U.S. military’s effectiveness and global standing.

Calls for Presidential Accountability

Editorial credit: Evan El-Amin/Shutterstock.

Discontent with President Biden’s leadership is clear in public opinion, with some calling for drastic measures. One user said, “Every member of this administration needs to be brought up on charges of treason & failure to uphold the oath of office! Definitely the worst in the history of this Country!” There is profound dissatisfaction with the current direction of military policy.

Impact of DEI on Military Recruitment

The impact of DEI initiatives on military recruitment is another hot topic. Some argue that emphasizing inclusivity or ‘wokeness’ is a deterrent. One user said, “No one wants to join the military now because they are being forced to be woke.” They believe that DEI policies may be alienating potential recruits.

Global Perception of U.S. Military

There is concern about how DEI initiatives affect the global perception of the U.S. military. Remarks like, “This country is becoming the world’s laughingstock,” indicate fears that these policies could diminish the military’s international reputation. They believe these measures could potentially affect its efficacy and influence on the global stage.

Military Degradation and Leadership

Public frustration with the perceived degradation of the military under President Biden’s leadership is clear. Phrases such as, “Biden’s woke military leaders are degrading our military, Biden needs to go now” show concern with the current administration’sadministration’s policies. They believe these are weakening the military’s traditional strengths and values.

DEI Initiatives vs. Practical Military Needs

The debate over allocating funds for DEI initiatives versus practical military needs continues. Critics argue that resources should be directed towards more immediate and traditional concerns, like maintaining national borders, rather than investing in DEI initiatives. They see these as less critical to the military’s primary defense mission.