In a stunning revelation, allegations have surfaced that the Department of Transportation under Pete Buttigieg squandered over $80 billion on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at the expense of critical infrastructure upgrades.
Massive DEI Spending Under Buttigieg
The Biden administration’s Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Pete Buttigieg, reportedly spent over $80 billion on DEI grants, raising serious concerns about financial priorities. Critics claim this massive spending on social equity programs diverted resources from necessary infrastructure improvements, particularly in the air traffic control sector. The administration’s focus on DEI was part of a broader Democratic agenda, but it has now come under fire for what many see as wasteful and ideologically driven spending.
Allegations suggest that the emphasis on social justice initiatives resulted in delayed modernization efforts, which are crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in U.S. transportation systems. This spending controversy has become a focal point for conservative commentators and political opponents who argue that taxpayer dollars should be directed towards tangible infrastructure improvements rather than ideological pursuits.
Duffy’s Reversal of DEI Directives
With the change in administration and Sean Duffy taking over as Transportation Secretary, a significant policy shift is underway. Duffy has publicly rescinded DEI-focused directives from the Biden era, signaling a return to traditional infrastructure spending. He has criticized the previous administration’s priorities, emphasizing a renewed focus on safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness over social equity programs.
Under Duffy’s leadership, the Department of Transportation is realigning its policies and budgetary focus. The department is reviewing grant criteria and spending priorities to ensure that investments are directed towards essential infrastructure needs. This shift aims to restore public trust and ensure that federal funds are used effectively to improve the nation’s transportation systems.
Political and Economic Implications
The allegations of wasteful spending have sparked intense political debate, serving as a flashpoint in upcoming election cycles. While conservative voices argue that the focus on DEI was misplaced, progressive supporters contend that addressing systemic inequities is a legitimate use of federal funds. This controversy reflects the broader ideological divide over the role of social equity in government policy.
Pete Buttigieg’s Transportation Dept. did spend $80B+ on social justice and “equity infrastructure projects,” vs a fraction of that upgrading the teetering U.S. air traffic control system. The sums spent on “equity” and social justice in FY 2023 alone were nearly half of the… pic.twitter.com/aIkYJWNAaS
— Elizabeth MacDonald (@LizMacDonaldFOX) July 21, 2025
Economically, questions linger about the efficiency and return on investment of the DEI spending under Buttigieg’s tenure. The lack of comprehensive, independent audits leaves uncertainty about the true impact of these initiatives. As investigations continue, the debate over DEI spending and infrastructure priorities is likely to remain a contentious issue in U.S. politics.
Sources:
Statement by Secretary Buttigieg on the President’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
Pete Buttigieg’s DOT spent $80 billion on DEI grants, delayed air …
Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy says Pete Buttigieg ‘got nothing done’
U.S. Transportation Secretary Duffy Is ‘Reasserting Common Sense’