Trump Slams FBI For Shutting DEI Office Before Inauguration, Demands Records

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.

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.

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.

Across the nation, DEI programs in both public and private sectors have faced increasing opposition, with several institutions cutting or eliminating these departments entirely.