The recent election presents a crucial chance to dismantle anti-meritocratic identity politics that have hampered numerous American institutions and reinstate a focus on competence. This is a task for both the new administration and state-level officials with renewed mandates.
For decades after the Pendleton Act of 1883, rigorous testing ensured a competent federal workforce. This emphasis on merit was vital for achieving national goals, from scientific advancements to the moon landing. However, by the late 1970s, court rulings and legislative changes, driven by concerns about disparate impact, led to the abandonment of these tests. Consequently, the effectiveness of the bureaucracy has steadily declined.
The situation worsened with the rise of identity politics, where merit became a secondary concern. As the previous administration prioritized various forms of racially-based policies, Republicans began to recognize the detrimental effects. A battle ensued in several states to challenge these policies, culminating in the Supreme Court's 2023 decision overturning affirmative action. This landmark ruling signaled a potential turning point in the fight against discriminatory practices, even as some institutions appear to be resisting the change.
Leaders like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have taken proactive steps to combat "woke" ideologies within state government, particularly in universities. Efforts to eliminate mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) pledges in public universities have gained traction in multiple states. However, this is just the beginning. A broader push for meritocracy is needed across all sectors.
The upcoming change in federal leadership offers a renewed opportunity. The Justice Department is expected to shift its stance on academic racial discrimination, and Congress is likely to reconsider race-based funding allocations. Figures like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are also advocating for merit-based approaches.
However, the fight is far from over. Entrenched interests within woke NGOs, universities, and those benefiting from government programs will resist change. Even in traditionally conservative states, funding continues to flow to departments and institutions promoting radical ideologies. This includes K-12 teacher training programs that denigrate American civilization and capitalism.
Simply winning elections is not enough. Defunding these radical elements and implementing merit-based assessments for teacher advancement are essential steps. Tying community college funding to student career outcomes could incentivize effective education and weed out ineffective, ideologically-driven programs. A comprehensive cleanup of state-funded institutions is necessary.
Public opinion, even in traditionally liberal areas, often favors meritocracy and common sense when given the opportunity to weigh in on specific issues. State legislators and governors must recognize that the electorate, the legal system, and the courts are on their side. Resisting pressure from woke institutions is crucial for upholding their duty to the nation.
Prioritizing merit-based accountability fosters prosperity and growth, while identity politics leads to a divisive and unproductive environment. The key question is whether leaders will heed this message and demonstrate the courage to act decisively.
Harkness Tower stands on the Yale University campus in New Haven, Connecticut.
