Hoosier State Today

In a column published in National Review, Senator Todd Young from Indiana expressed his views on the admission policies of U.S. service academies. He argues that these institutions should cease using race-based criteria for admissions.

The United States Military Academy, founded in 1802, along with other service academies, was established by Congress to produce officers capable of leading and defending the nation. Young, a Naval Academy graduate, highlights the competitive nature of gaining admission to these academies. Each academy offers 4,400 spots with no more than 1,350 students admitted annually.

Young notes that candidates are nominated by members of Congress and other high-ranking officials. Graduates have historically achieved significant accomplishments, including becoming presidents and admirals.

However, Young contends that recent directives aimed at increasing diversity have shifted focus away from merit. The Department of Defense promotes "equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion" within these academies as part of this initiative.

Young claims this approach constitutes discrimination and conflicts with constitutional principles. He believes it undermines military readiness amid rising global threats. As the Trump administration prepares to take office next year, he calls for an end to race-based admissions in service academies.

He asserts that race and ethnicity do not influence military success or leadership abilities but stresses commitment to a shared mission as crucial for battlefield success. Racial preferences in admissions could erode necessary cohesion among service members.

Citing Supreme Court rulings deeming race-based college admissions unconstitutional last year, Young argues that similar standards should apply to service academies. While the court did not address these institutions specifically due to their non-involvement in the case, West Point defended its use of race-based admissions through an amicus brief.

Young describes this defense as unfounded and emphasizes that effective leadership is essential for military success rather than diversity metrics. He insists equal protection under the law must be applied consistently across all educational institutions.

Ending racial preferences at service academies will strengthen armed forces and restore trust in these preparatory institutions according to Young. America's military should remain neutral on racial considerations like the Constitution it defends.

Senator Todd Young serves on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.