Presidential candidates react to Supreme Court’s Harvard, UNC affirmative action ruling

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Thursday, June 29, 2023

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis

Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who officially launched his presidential campaign in May after months of speculation, took to Twitter to express support for the decision.

“College admissions should be based on merit and applicants should not be judged on their race or ethnicity,” tweeted DeSantis. “The Supreme Court has correctly upheld the Constitution and ended discrimination by colleges and universities.”

In May, DeSantis signed legislation effectively banning Florida colleges and universities from spending funds on assorted diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

“Florida has ranked number one in higher education for seven years in a row, and by signing this legislation we are ensuring that Florida’s institutions encourage diversity of thought, civil discourse, and the pursuit of truth for generations to come,” said DeSantis at the bill signing ceremony.

“Florida is taking a stand for empowering students, parents, and educators to focus on creating opportunities for our younger generations. I am happy to have worked with the legislature to get this important legislation signed, sealed, and delivered.”