Trump Criticizes FBI’s DEI Office Closure Before Inauguration, Demands Transparency

President Donald Trump is accusing the FBI of corruption after the agency closed its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) just before his second term begins. The timing of the move, which took place in December 2024, has sparked questions about the motivations behind the shutdown.

“We demand that the FBI preserve and retain all records, documents, and information on the now closing DEI Office—Never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He added, “Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!”

The FBI has confirmed the closure but provided no explanation. This has led to growing suspicion, especially considering the office’s closure came just days before the change in administration.

Trump, who has long criticized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, has vowed to eliminate such initiatives within federal agencies. His pick for FBI director, Kash Patel, shares these views, arguing that DEI programs detract from the bureau’s mission of protecting national security.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) also voiced concerns over the FBI’s focus on DEI initiatives. In a recent letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, Blackburn warned that these efforts jeopardize the FBI’s core duties, especially in the face of rising security threats.

Across the country, DEI programs are under increasing scrutiny, with many organizations opting to scale back or eliminate such offices entirely.

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