1870: A Time and Place for Correcting Past Injustices?
Ram Ramaswamy, a Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential race, recently sparked controversy with his remarks on affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. According to the Des Moines Register, Ramaswamy stated that the appropriate time for addressing past injustices was in 1870.
Anti-American and Divisive
Ramaswamy further expressed his belief that affirmative action and DEI programs were “anti-American at their core” and “inherently divisive.” He argued that as time progresses, instances of racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination become less prevalent. Although he acknowledged that these issues may not disappear entirely, Ramaswamy suggested that they should be allowed to diminish in importance.
Highlighting Divisions
The Republican candidate went on to assert that current efforts to combat systemic racism and other forms of discrimination actually exacerbate divisions within society. He claimed that by drawing attention to race and highlighting these issues, more harm than good is being done.
Presidential Primary and Iowa Voters
Ramaswamy’s controversial remarks come as he, along with other GOP 2024 hopefuls, approaches the final stages of the presidential primary campaign in Iowa. The primary is scheduled to take place on January 15. Notably, former President Donald Trump maintains a significant lead over his competitors in national polls. However, candidates like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, and Ramaswamy have made substantial efforts to sway Iowa voters.
Trump’s Lead in Iowa
Despite the efforts of Ramaswamy and other candidates, a recent poll of Iowa Republicans conducted in mid-December revealed that Trump enjoys a 34-point lead. This indicates that he remains a formidable force in the upcoming primary.
