President Joe Biden is facing criticism from both sides of the political spectrum for his reverse discrimination policies which involve preferential treatment for some minorities. This includes federal jobs, grants, contracts and outreach. The American Rescue Plan created a debt-relief program that would pay farmers and ranchers of color up to 120% of their outstanding loans regardless of financial need, although this was overturned by the courts. In response to this criticism, the Biden administration is focusing on kitchen table issues such as Social Security and drug prices in order to appeal to swing voters. Additionally, the President has signed legislation overturning a criminal law in Washington D.C. and proposed a $6.9 trillion budget with broad Democratic support. Despite the criticism, more than 90 agencies have submitted “Equity Action Plans” and all agencies now have to file such reports, with many creating departments and senior-level posts to oversee equity efforts. The Defense Department has asked for $86.5 million to cover “diversity and inclusion activities.” Biden’s efforts to create racial equity and support for underserved communities are likely to remain a priority of his administration, providing a stark contrast to the policies of his predecessor.
POLITICS
EQUITY ACTION PLANS
REVERSE DISCRIMINATION