A stunning legal twist has rocked Washington, D.C., as a federal judge appointed by President Donald Trump struck down two of his administration’s key measures aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in America’s schools and universities.
A Blow to Trump’s War on DEI
U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher—handpicked by Trump in 2019—ruled that the Department of Education (DOE) violated procedural rules when it warned schools to end all race-based decision-making or lose federal funding. The Trump administration argued these DEI initiatives discriminate against white and Asian American students, but Gallagher’s decision blocks the anti-DEI push for now.
The lawsuit, filed by the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, challenged Trump’s February directives targeting DEI in education. Gallagher refused to take a stand on whether DEI policies are good or bad, but her ruling effectively shields them from immediate federal challenge.
Pattern of Trump-Appointed Judges Breaking Ranks
Gallagher’s decision follows a trend of Trump-nominated judges ruling against his administration. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich blocked the withholding of millions in congressional funding, and Judge Thomas Cullen questioned the administration’s sweeping lawsuit against the Maryland federal bench.
Liberals Celebrate, Conservatives Sound the Alarm
Progressive activists are hailing Gallagher’s ruling as a victory for “inclusion,” while critics warn it keeps taxpayer-funded institutions locked into divisive, race-based policies. Skye Perryman of Democracy Forward called Trump’s anti-DEI measures a “war on education.”
For conservatives, the decision is another reminder of the importance of judicial loyalty and the ongoing fight to restore fairness and merit-based education in America.
What Happens Next?
It’s unclear whether the Trump administration will appeal, but this battle over DEI programs is far from over. As the 2024 election season heats up, the fight for control of America’s education system—and the billions in federal funding that come with it—will remain front and center.