Full Breakdown
Rubio Reinstates Times New Roman as State Department Standard
12/10/2025, 2:37:22 AM
Shift in Typography Policy
On December 9, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a directive mandating the return to Times New Roman as the official font for all State Department communications. This decision reverses a policy implemented by former Secretary of State Antony Blinken in January 2023, which adopted Calibri, a sans-serif font, purportedly for its accessibility benefits for individuals with disabilities. Rubio criticized the previous switch as a "wasteful" initiative linked to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programs, which he described as misguided.
Rationale Behind the Change
In an internal cable sent to all U.S. diplomatic posts, Rubio emphasized that typography significantly influences the professionalism of official documents. He argued that Calibri is "informal" compared to serif typefaces like Times New Roman, which he believes better aligns with the department's need for decorum and professionalism. The cable stated, "This formatting standard aligns with the President’s One Voice for America’s Foreign Relations directive, underscoring the Department’s responsibility to present a unified, professional voice in all communications."
Background on Font Policy
The transition to Calibri under Blinken was based on recommendations from the State Department’s office of diversity and inclusion, which aimed to enhance accessibility for readers with visual impairments and those using assistive technologies. Studies have indicated that sans-serif fonts like Calibri can be easier to read for individuals with certain disabilities, including low vision and dyslexia.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Rubio's directive argue that the decision undermines efforts to promote inclusivity and accessibility within government communications. They contend that reverting to Times New Roman may alienate individuals who benefit from the readability of sans-serif fonts. The backlash against DEIA initiatives, particularly since the protests following the police killings of unarmed Black individuals in 2020, has led to a conservative pushback against such policies, with opponents claiming they are discriminatory and detrimental to merit-based decision-making.
Official Statements & Responses
The State Department has not publicly commented on Rubio's directive. However, the memo's framing suggests a broader ideological shift within the department, reflecting the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to dismantle DEIA programs across federal agencies.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Rubio's directive has been framed as a return to tradition, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the impact of font choice on accessibility and professionalism in government communications. Additionally, the absence of a response from the State Department raises questions about the implementation and potential ramifications of this policy change.
Verbatim Quotes
- “To restore decorum and professionalism to the Department’s written work products and abolish yet another wasteful DEIA program, the Department is returning to Times New Roman as its standard typeface,” — Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State
- “ Calibri is “informal” when compared to serif typefaces like Times New Roman, the order said, and “clashes” with the department’s official letterhead.” — Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State
- “Some studies suggest that sans-serif fonts, such as Calibri, are easier to read for those with certain visual disabilities.” — Source Unspecified
