Summary
Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) has urged the Biden administration to reverse its decision to block federal funding for Montana universities due to their failure to meet diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring standards. This funding, part of the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), has been crucial for the state, and Tester argues that the decision reflects a misunderstanding of local needs by federal bureaucrats.
Tester’s call for action comes as he faces a competitive re-election campaign in a predominantly Republican state. The Department of Education denied funding after claiming Montana universities did not provide adequate details on their hiring practices for a diverse workforce, a move Tester criticized as “one-size-fits-all” and “embarrassing.” His stance on this issue marks a significant departure from the general Democratic support for DEI initiatives and highlights his attempt to align more closely with Montana voters as he battles Republican challenger Tim Sheehy, who has criticized Tester for his past support of DEI policies.
Tester distances himself from Biden administration’s ‘unfair’ DEI mandates
Oct. 8 / Gazette / Reiterates Tester's call to action against federal funding cuts, effectively capturing the urgency of his situation. However, it primarily echoes previous points without introducing new perspectives or details. “ Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) urged the Biden administration to stop pushing diversity, equity, and inclusion practices on Montana universities as he battles to...
Tester distances himself from Biden administration’s ‘unfair’ DEI mandates
Oct. 8 / Gazette / Highlights Tester's critique of the Biden administration's DEI policies, framing it as a necessary move for his re-election in Montana. Offers insights into local political dynamics but lacks depth on DEI implications. “ Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) urged the Biden administration to stop pushing diversity, equity, and inclusion practices on Montana universities as he battles to...
Oct. 8 / Fox News / Focuses on Tester's political maneuvering and criticism of DEI standards, providing a detailed context of his re-election battle. It effectively contrasts his previous support for Biden, showcasing the shifting political landscape. “ The nonprofit Independent Women's Forum is planning to sue the U.S. Secret Service for what they allege is an "arbitrary" diversity, equality and inclusion...