Trump Demands FBI Retain Records After Closing DEI Office Ahead Of Inauguration

President Donald Trump is calling for transparency from the FBI after the agency closed its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) just days before his return to office. Trump accused the FBI of corruption and questioned the timing of the move.

“We demand that the FBI preserve and retain all records, documents, and information on the now closing DEI Office—Never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!”

The FBI confirmed the closure of the ODI in December 2024 but did not provide an explanation for why the office was shut down. The lack of details has sparked suspicion and raised questions about the agency’s actions as Trump prepares for a new administration.

Trump has long criticized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, viewing them as a distraction from critical government functions. During his campaign, he pledged to dismantle such programs and has made it clear that his FBI director nominee, Kash Patel, shares his opposition to DEI efforts.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) echoed these concerns in a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray. Blackburn warned that the agency’s focus on DEI initiatives could undermine national security and public safety, urging the FBI to prioritize its core mission.

Across the United States, DEI programs have been facing mounting criticism, with many organizations closing or scaling back such offices in response to growing opposition.