Trump’s Culture War Has a New Patron Saint—and a Fallen Idol
Summary
In 2025, the U.S. government used the AI chatbot ChatGPT to help decide which National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) grants were related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). A judge ruled this process violated constitutional rights and stopped over 1,400 grants. Later, the NEH awarded a $10 million grant to the Foundation for Excellence in Higher Education, which supports classical humanities programs and is seen by some as promoting conservative values.Key Facts
- In spring 2025, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) used ChatGPT to screen humanities grants for DEI connections.
- A federal judge ruled this use of AI violated the First Amendment, equal protection under the Fifth Amendment, and DOGE’s authority.
- Over 1,400 humanities grants were canceled due to this AI screening.
- Some canceled grants included non-DEI projects, such as funding for a museum’s air conditioning system where improved access was seen as DEI-related.
- In January 2025, the NEH awarded $75.1 million in grants, including $10 million to the Foundation for Excellence in Higher Education.
- The foundation promotes classical humanities programs like Western civilization, civics, and Great Books courses.
- Critics say the foundation has conservative ties and connections to Opus Dei-linked groups, though the foundation denies political or religious affiliations.
- Supporters believe the funding corrects perceived liberal bias in higher education and supports a return to traditional humanities education.
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