The assassination attempt on President Donald J. Trump on July 13, 2024, has underscored a critical issue within the United States Secret Service and, more broadly, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): the problematic influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. Initially introduced under former President Obama and aggressively expanded under President Biden, these policies have prioritized ideology over merit and mission, with severe consequences for our nation's security.

In a future Trump administration, the role of Secretary of Homeland Security will be crucial, leading efforts to restore security and sovereignty to our borders and deporting illegal immigrants who have violated our laws. Now, there is an additional, pressing priority: the termination of DEI policies and the department's focus on its primary national security mission. While the intentions behind DEI initiatives can be debated, the unintended consequences have proven detrimental. These policies have diverted critical resources, introduced divisive practices, and impeded merit-based performance and decision-making.

The primary argument for eliminating DEI policies is their detrimental impact on operational effectiveness. DEI initiatives have imposed additional administrative burdens and operational constraints that detract from DHS's core mission. Instead of streamlining processes to respond swiftly to national security threats, the focus has shifted to meeting DEI benchmarks. This shift has compromised the department's ability to perform its essential functions efficiently. In the case of the Secret Service, the prioritizing DEI over meritocratic standards may have contributed to the lapses leading up to the assassination attempt on President Trump and have played a role in the vacuum of leadership and accountability within the Secret Service.

Resources allocated to DEI initiatives can be more effectively utilized in addressing pressing security concerns such as terrorism, illegal immigration, and other threats. The financial and human resources dedicated to DEI programs represent an opportunity cost, diverting attention and funds from critical areas. By reallocating these resources, DHS can better equip itself to handle its primary responsibilities, ensuring that national security remains the top priority.

A significant issue with DEI policies is the emphasis on characteristics over merit. While diversity and inclusion are valuable, they should not come at the expense of competence and performance. DHS's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of the United States, which is best achieved through merit-based performance and decision-making. Prioritizing DEI has, at times, resulted in the promotion of individuals based on identity rather than capability, leading to inefficiencies and potential security risks.

Ironically, DEI policies, intended to foster inclusion, have sometimes created divisions within the workforce. Emphasizing differences rather than common goals can lead to a fragmented organization. Eliminating DEI policies can promote a unified, cohesive work environment where the focus is on the Department's common mission. A team united by a shared purpose is more effective and resilient in the face of challenges.

The next Secretary of DHS must terminate these harmful and divisive DEI policies and return the department to its core mission. The Secretary’s directive should include the immediate cessation of all DEI-related programs and activities. Resources previously dedicated to DEI efforts should be redirected to support DHS's core mission areas. A comprehensive review of current policies and practices should be conducted to ensure alignment with principles of merit-based performance and operational efficiency—practices that work for American taxpayers and actually enhance the security of our homeland.

The assassination attempt on President Trump has highlighted the serious challenges rooted in promoting and embracing DEI practices within DHS. While well-intentioned, these policies have undermined the effectiveness, unity, and operational readiness of the department. By refocusing on merit and efficiency, DHS can better fulfill its mission of ensuring the safety and security of the United States. It is time to prioritize competence and cohesion over ideological adherence, restoring the department's ability to protect our nation effectively.

About the Author: Brian J. Cavanaugh

Brian J. Cavanaugh served on the National Security Council from 2018-2021 as the Senior Director for Resilience and as the Executive Director for Strategic Planning and Integration at the Department of Homeland Security. He is currently a Senior Vice President at American Global Strategies, a firm founded by former National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien and NSC Chief of Staff Alex Gray.

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