Trump targets DEI in federal contracts with new executive order

President Trump signed an executive order directing federal contractors and subcontractors to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices, requiring DEI-free clauses in certain contracts and giving agencies power to cancel, suspend or debar noncompliant contractors. The White House said the Office of Management and Budget will issue compliance guidance and identify sectors where DEI is used, while the attorney general will review related violations for prompt action. Civil rights advocates argue DEI addresses historic inequities, while Trump frames DEI as anti-merit; this follows a broader push to dismantle DEI policies at federal agencies and in the private sector.