Wisconsin University Regents Reject Republican Deal to Reduce Diversity Positions

The University of Wisconsin regents have rejected a deal with Republicans that would have provided pay raises for employees and funding for a new engineering building in exchange for reductions in staff positions focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The regents voted 9-8 against the deal, which had been brokered by Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. The decision was criticized by GOP leaders, who accused the regents of prioritizing their ideological campaign over employee raises and investments. The fight reflects a broader cultural battle over college diversity initiatives, with conservatives criticizing the UW system as liberal and Democrats arguing that diversity initiatives enhance the collegiate experience.