
President Donald Trump is questioning the FBI’s decision to close its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) just before his second term begins. The timing of the closure, which took place in December 2024, has raised alarms among Trump’s supporters and critics alike.
“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 posted on Truth Social. “Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!”
While the FBI confirmed the closure of the ODI, the agency has not explained the reasons behind its decision. This silence has left many wondering about the motivations behind shutting down the office so close to the change in administration.
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, a longtime critic of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, has vowed to dismantle such initiatives within the federal government. His nominee for FBI director, Kash Patel, shares these views, arguing that DEI efforts distract from the bureau’s mission to protect national security.
🚨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
Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) has also expressed concern over the FBI’s DEI focus. She recently sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray warning that the agency’s commitment to these initiatives could undermine public safety. Blackburn called for a return to the bureau’s primary mission of protecting Americans.
🚨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
Across the nation, DEI programs in both public and private sectors have faced increasing opposition, with several institutions cutting or eliminating these departments entirely.