Red state lawmakers warned about allegedly accepting ‘DEI dollars’ from hospital association: Watchdog
Conservative nonprofit Consumer’s Research Group is sounding the alarm on Tennessee lawmakers who have received donations from the Tennessee Hospital Association (THA), accusing the hospital group of quietly pushing radical diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The group is urging lawmakers to sever ties with the THA, citing concerns that the organization’s DEI commitments may be in conflict with President Donald Trump’s efforts to eliminate such initiatives.
According to Consumer’s Research Group executive director Will Hild, Tennessee representatives who accept “DEI Dollars” from institutions like the THA are going against President Trump’s stance on discriminatory DEI policies and should be investigated. The group has launched a campaign against Vanderbilt University Medical Center, accusing it of hiding DEI resources and climate activism behind password-protected web pages.
In a letter sent to Lt. Gov. Randy McNally and House Speaker Cameron Sexton, as well as other Republican lawmakers, Consumer’s Research Group highlighted the THA’s promotion of DEI and “health equity” through its Council on Inclusion and Health Equity. The group raised concerns about the potential influence of THA donations on lawmakers and their ability to hold hospitals accountable for prioritizing equity over healthcare.
The Tennessee Hospital Association’s political action committee (PAC) has contributed over $700,000 to candidates and PACs in the state from 2020 to 2024, including members of the House and Senate Republican caucuses. Consumer’s Research Group warned lawmakers that accepting THA’s DEI Dollars could hinder investigations into hospitals like VUMC, which have faced criticism for providing irreversible gender transition procedures to minors.
Following Trump’s executive actions mandating an end to DEI programs, VUMC spokesperson John Howser stated that the hospital is reviewing its programs to ensure compliance. Trump’s order, titled “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” aims to eliminate DEI programs within federal agencies and among federal contractors, arguing that they lead to preferential treatment.
Criticism over workplace DEI commitments has intensified following a Supreme Court ruling last year that barred racial preferences in university admissions. As lawmakers grapple with the implications of accepting donations from organizations promoting DEI, the debate over the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare and other sectors continues to unfold.
Fox News Digital has reached out to VUMC, the Tennessee Hospital Association, and Tennessee Republican lawmakers for comment on the allegations raised by Consumer’s Research Group. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
