Newly inaugurated Indiana Governor Mike Braun has swiftly taken action to dismantle the state government's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) framework. The former Republican senator and successful businessman believes that a focus on merit, excellence, and innovation is more beneficial to the state's economic growth.

Braun, who built his small truck-body business, Meyer Distributing, into a major enterprise, argues that his experience “signing the front side of a paycheck” gives him a unique understanding of economic priorities. He contends that DEI initiatives are not among those priorities. During an appearance on "Fox & Friends," Braun expressed enthusiasm for a shift in focus, emphasizing the potential for collaboration between "enterprising states" and the federal government.

He contrasted his conservative economic approach with what he sees as the "big government" platform of President Biden and other Democrats. Braun invoked Rahm Emanuel's famous phrase, "Never let a crisis go to waste," suggesting that the current administration is using challenging times to push through its agenda.

Braun champions a new focus on "MEI" – Merit, Excellence, and Innovation – in Indiana. He believes that government should prioritize tangible results for its citizens. This philosophy is reflected in his decision to eliminate college degree requirements for certain state jobs where they aren't essential and to implement performance metrics for accountability. Braun's core belief is that individuals should be evaluated based on their accomplishments, not their identity.

The governor's executive order cites the Supreme Court's decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which deemed affirmative action programs unconstitutional. The order prohibits the use of state resources for DEI programs that provide preferential treatment based on race. It also bans requirements for individuals to disclose personal pronouns and for employers to mandate DEI statements from job applicants.

Braun aims to streamline government operations and increase efficiency, drawing parallels to his experience at Meyer Distributing. He has criticized the prevalence of teleworking among state employees since the COVID-19 pandemic and views the elimination of the DEI office as a step towards a more effective government.

Braun's decision has faced some opposition, notably from Indiana State Representative Phil GiaQuinta, who questioned the prioritization of this issue over other pressing concerns facing Hoosiers. GiaQuinta viewed the DEI office as a valuable resource and expressed concern that its elimination would distract from more important matters.