WASHINGTON – A Senate hearing on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives turned tense Wednesday when Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, implied that critics of DEI may distrust her simply because she’s a minority.
The exchange occurred during an afternoon session examining the state of DEI under President Trump’s second term. The confrontation came after Hirono challenged a witness from an anti-DEI legal organization on whether courts had ever explicitly ruled DEI initiatives unconstitutional.
“Okay, well, I’m out of time,” Hirono said after a tense exchange, appearing frustrated that the witness did not affirm her view. “You can see that we are a very divergent group of people here.”
Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., who chairs the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, responded with a quick jab: “Intellectually diverse!”
Hirono smiled and turned toward Schmitt. “You know, based on the suspicion people seem to have about DEI supporters, that would mean you think I can’t be trusted,” she said. “I hope that’s not your view.”
Schmitt immediately pushed back. “I don’t know if you’re talking about me — hopefully not — because that is a ridiculous accusation,” he said.
“Good, thank you,” Hirono replied. “I just wish more people felt that way about those in this country who happen to look different…”
Before she could finish, Schmitt cut in to adjourn the hearing. “Okay — your time has expired, senator. Thanks. Thanks so much.”
The clash came as debate over DEI in schools and workplaces has intensified following the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling striking down race-based affirmative action in college admissions. Republicans have increasingly scrutinized DEI programs, questioning their legality and effectiveness, especially under the Trump administration.
Hirono, a longtime critic of President Trump and his policies, has frequently used Senate hearings to grill administration nominees. During past confirmation hearings, she accused Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth of being willing to fire on peaceful protesters and was the sole vote against Trump’s VA secretary pick on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
