Brendan Carr, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), announced that the agency will cease its focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) starting next year. Carr, who is a senior Republican member of the FCC, made this statement on social media after sharing a snippet from the FCC’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2025.
The budget highlighted that the FCC’s second highest strategic goal was to promote DEI. Carr stated, “The FCC’s most recent budget request said that promoting DEI was the agency’s second highest strategic goal. Starting next year, the FCC will end its promotion of DEI.” The primary goal listed above DEI is the pursuit of a 100% broadband policy to enhance connectivity for all Americans.
In its budget proposal, the FCC indicated the need to analyze how its policies might either support or hinder advancements in diversity and accessibility. The aim was to take “focused action and investments” to eliminate barriers faced by disadvantaged individuals and communities.
Carr’s comments suggest a significant shift in the FCC’s focus, reflecting a pushback against the current emphasis on promoting DEI initiatives. He even humorously followed up with a GIF stating, “When it comes to the FCC’s promotion of DEI, I have just one thing to say: Afuera (get out)!”
Trump recently emphasized Carr’s commitment to free speech, referring to him as a “warrior for free speech” and voicing support for his leadership to benefit rural America. Carr, who joined the FCC in 2017 and was confirmed three times by the Senate, aims to refocus the agency’s priorities as they prepare for the new fiscal year.
