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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appeared on Life, Liberty & Levin to criticize the Left’s push for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, calling them "misplaced priorities" that undermine the core missions of critical American institutions. DeSantis, a vocal opponent of woke ideologies, highlighted the military as a prime example of an institution being “hijacked” by such progressive agendas, which he argues jeopardizes national security.
DeSantis pointed out that initiatives like DEI and Critical Race Theory (CRT) have no place in the military, as they sow division, detract from unit cohesion, and have decreased respect for once highly respected institutions,
"I served in Iraq as a naval officer. You know, we revered these institutions and the Left has really hijacked them and they're using those institutions to promote their social agenda. The problem is one, this Leftism is not good for the country period, but it also takes their eye off the ball and focusing on what they should be focusing on," said DeSantis.
DeSantis used the opportunity to outline his vision for restoring institutions to their original purpose: “January 20th, I think, gives the country an opportunity with President Trump coming back in to clean house, to get these institutions focused on the mission that they were created to do and actually do the work of protecting the American people."
DeSantis also pointed to steps taken in Florida, where he has led efforts to ban DEI programs in state universities and push back against woke indoctrination in schools.
DeSantis’ remarks align with a growing conservative movement that seeks to challenge the spread of woke ideologies in the public and private sectors. His criticism of DEI resonates with voters who see these initiatives as undermining institutional efficiency and accountability.
Ron DeSantis’ appearance on Life, Liberty & Levin underscores the ongoing debate over the role of DEI and other progressive ideologies in American institutions. His call to refocus the military and other key sectors on their foundational purposes reflects a broader conservative effort to counteract the influence of woke agendas.
References:
Life, Liberty & Levin interview with Ron DeSantis, aired January 5, 2025.
Official statements from Governor Ron DeSantis’ office regarding DEI reforms in Florida.
Coverage of DEI and CRT policies in the military by Newsmax and The Federalist.
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