
President Donald Trump has reacted strongly to the FBI’s decision to shut down its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) in December 2024. Trump has demanded that the agency retain all relevant records, suggesting that the closure was politically motivated.
“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 stated on Truth Social. “Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!”
The FBI confirmed the closure of the ODI, but provided no explanation for why the office was shut down just days before the transition of power. This lack of clarity has sparked suspicion, particularly given the office’s controversial nature.
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. Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) January 17, 2025
Trump has long opposed DEI programs, viewing them as distractions from national security and essential government duties. His stance was echoed by his choice for FBI director, Kash Patel, who has been a vocal critic of such programs, claiming they weaken agencies’ ability to focus on their core missions.
🚨Trump orders the FBI to preserve ALL records related to the DEI office they’re shutting down. pic.twitter.com/1JdIMGU8oW
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 17, 2025
In a letter to outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray, Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) raised concerns about the negative impact DEI policies have on the FBI’s ability to protect Americans. She argued that the focus on diversity programs had compromised the agency’s core functions.
🚨BREAKING: The FBI has officially SHUTTERED its DEI office according to Fox News.
President Trump and Kash Patel are already putting up wins before taking power.
🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/XXukMWnQXj
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) January 16, 2025
DEI initiatives have been increasingly scrutinized across the country, with numerous institutions pulling back or entirely eliminating these programs in response to rising opposition.