Story perspectives

Judge Bans Viral DOGE Videos Amid DEI Controversy

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Manhattan judge ordered the removal of viral deposition videos from former DOGE employees Justin Fox and Nathan Cavanaugh after harassment.
The videos showed their use of ChatGPT to identify grants that violated President Donald Trump's executive order against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
DOGE cut over 1,400 grants, reducing funding for cultural projects.
Cavanaugh defended his inexperience, saying decisions were based on subjective judgments.

History

Historical Context

In 2020, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 13950, which restricted federal contractors from promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This order led to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) cutting over 1,400 grants, impacting cultural funding. The ongoing debate over DEI policies continues to influence federal funding discussions, reflecting broader societal tensions regarding equity and inclusion.

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Story summary

A Manhattan judge ordered the removal of viral deposition videos from former DOGE employees Justin Fox and Nathan Cavanaugh after harassment.
The videos showed their use of ChatGPT to identify grants that violated President Donald Trump's executive order against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
DOGE cut over 1,400 grants, reducing funding for cultural projects.
Cavanaugh defended his inexperience, saying decisions were based on subjective judgments.

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