Restoration News has criticized U.S. Naval Academy leaders for allegedly prioritizing diversity quotas over combat preparedness. The publication questioned Vice Admiral Yvette Davids’ testimony regarding race-based admissions and called for accountability under directives from former President Donald Trump and Secretary Pete Hegseth.
According to Reuters, the U.S. Naval Academy announced on March 28, 2025, that it would cease considering race, ethnicity, or sex in its admissions process. This decision was a direct response to an executive order issued by Trump on January 27, which banned such criteria in military academies. Additionally, a Defense Department directive from Hegseth reinforced this policy change. The report notes that this decision followed scrutiny over whether the academy’s previous practices aligned with new federal policies and growing public concern about its focus on diversity initiatives.
The Associated Press reports that Vice Admiral Davids issued internal guidance on February 14, 2025, prohibiting the consideration of race, sex, or ethnicity during admissions. However, her congressional testimony on March 26 said these factors “at no time” were considered in admissions, leading to questions about the necessity and timing of the new policy. The AP highlights this contradiction and indicates that the change was formally implemented following pressure from the Trump administration.
The Heritage Foundation details that under Davids’ leadership, the Naval Academy maintained an Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and a position titled Brigade Dignity and Respect Executive Officer to promote diversity-related policies. In 2024, MSNBC commentator Ruth Ben-Ghiat was invited for a lecture on military and authoritarianism at the academy; however, it was postponed after congressional objections due to perceived partisan overtones. The Foundation argues these activities detracted from the academy’s core mission and could have potentially violated the Hatch Act.
According to RestoretheMilitary.com, Restoration News is affiliated with an advocacy platform focused on exposing DEI initiatives within the U.S. military and its academies. The organization conducts investigative reporting and policy analysis aimed at holding military leaders accountable for educational and operational priorities while committing to restoring a combat-focused ethos in officer training programs.
