An appeals court has ruled that President Donald Trump can continue to cut diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from the federal government while a lawsuit is ongoing. This decision came from a panel of three judges at the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, who overturned a nationwide injunction issued by Judge Adam Abelson, a Biden appointee.
The judges noted that the lower court’s ruling was too broad, although they acknowledged that Trump’s executive orders might raise First Amendment issues. Shortly after taking office, Trump signed an executive order aimed at ending what he called "radical and wasteful" DEI programs. Following this, the Office of Personnel Management issued a memo directing federal agencies to start eliminating DEI offices and officials.
In his order, Trump criticized the Biden administration for implementing DEI initiatives across various federal sectors, claiming it led to discrimination and waste. He argued that his administration would ensure that taxpayer resources are used effectively and to serve all Americans equally.
This order has begun to take effect in several federal agencies, including the Department of the Interior. Trump is also facing another lawsuit related to his DEI policies, filed by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and Lambda Legal in a D.C. District Court.
In response to the court’s decision, a White House spokesman emphasized that those opposed to Trump’s agenda should either adapt or continue to resist what they see as the will of the people. The ongoing debate over DEI programs reflects larger national conversations about equity, representation, and government spending.