Sen. Moreno Challenges Cincinnati’s DEI Ordinance

FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, has raised concerns with Cincinnati’s mayor regarding a new ordinance that reorganizes procurement under a Department of Economic Inclusion and Procurement. Moreno argues that taxpayers should not fund what he sees as an expanding DEI bureaucracy that may be illegal.

Moreno addressed his concerns in a letter to Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, stating, “Taxpayers should never foot the bill for woke DEI policies or initiatives.” He emphasizes that Cincinnati’s citizens deserve a government that prioritizes competence and merit rather than politically driven quotas based on race or ethnicity.

At the center of the debate is a city ordinance approved by the Cincinnati City Council in June. It establishes a Department of Economic Inclusion and Procurement, which Moreno contends could bring DEI considerations into the procurement process. According to city documents cited by Moreno, this restructuring aims to make the contracting process more efficient while maintaining a focus on DEI.

In his letter to both the mayor and the Justice Department, Moreno pointed out that the ordinance appears despite the Trump administration’s emphasis on reducing DEI programs across the federal government. He argues that the ordinance disregards Justice Department guidance warning against “unlawful discrimination.”

“The days of choosing public contract winners based on excellence are back,” Moreno wrote. He adds that Cincinnati must better manage public funds.

Moreno highlighted that the city’s explanation of the ordinance continues to incorporate DEI in its contracting process. He quotes the city’s admission in its explanation: “The goal of this restructuring is not to reduce the city’s focus on inclusion. Instead, it is intended to strengthen it.” Moreno insists that Ohioans should have their taxpayer dollars awarded based on merit, not race or ethnicity.

Moreno requests Mayor Pureval to respond within five business days with details on the federal funding received in fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026. He also asks for the projected cost of the ordinance and outlines the process the new department will use in reviewing applications and awarding contracts.

Additional information is sought on how Cincinnati plans to align with the Justice Department’s guidance and manage its law enforcement staffing needs. Moreno stresses that the city should focus on its $30 million budget deficit and public safety issues instead of expanding DEI initiatives.

Moreno concludes with concerns about resource allocation amid increasing crime rates, highlighting recent violent incidents and recruitment challenges in law enforcement. He urges that public funds should focus on safeguarding residents and restoring order in Ohio.

Fox News Digital has asked Mayor Pureval’s office for comment. Reporter Andrew Mark Miller covers these developments, find him on Twitter @andymarkmiller or email [email protected].