Republican Congressman Wesley Hunt of Texas is drawing widespread attention after publicly calling for the permanent abolition of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that Americans should be evaluated on hard work, competence and character rather than identity.
In a post on X, Hunt — an Army veteran and rising conservative figure — stated plainly that “DEI should be abolished, permanently,” emphasizing that he never wants to be “chosen, promoted, or rewarded because of how I look.” Instead, he said, he wants to earn every opportunity through merit, grit, discipline and determination.”
The Texas lawmaker stressed that true equality means equal standards, not engineered outcomes tailored to group identity. “The dignity of achievement comes from effort, not entitlement,” Hunt wrote, adding that judgments should be based on character, competence and results rather than demographic characteristics.
Hunt’s remarks resonated particularly with conservative audiences and public figures, with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk endorsing the congressman’s position on social media. Musk wrote that Hunt’s stance was “how anyone of honor should be.”
The congressman has repeatedly voiced criticism of DEI policies, calling them contrary to America’s founding principles of meritocracy and equal opportunity. In past posts, he has described such programs as contradictory to the nation’s tradition of rising by strength of character rather than “the shade of our skin.”
Hunt, who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2023, is now running for the U.S. Senate in Texas. His outspoken views on DEI and merit-based achievement are likely to shape debate as he challenges incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn in a high-profile primary race.
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