A legal organization closely associated with President Trump is leading a renewed push to eliminate diversity-driven hiring practices in the federal workforce, demanding a strict return to merit-based employment.
The group is challenging a 44-year-old consent decree they say has long prioritized identity factors over qualifications. They argue that current hiring policies unfairly elevate diversity goals at the expense of selecting the most capable candidates.
This legal battle follows President Trump’s recent executive order, which reversed mandates requiring federal contractors to implement diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programs. The new order directs agencies to focus hiring decisions solely on merit, aiming to restore what the administration calls a “skills-first” standard across government positions.
Supporters of the move believe this shift will elevate competency and efficiency in federal roles, while opponents warn it may reduce workplace diversity and roll back progress in representation.
The case could set a major precedent for future federal employment practices and further define the direction of Trump’s second-term workforce reforms.