Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott responded to critics who labeled him a "DEI mayor" after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
Despite being elected with over 70% of the vote, some right-wing social media users used this term following a press conference on the collapse.
MSNBC host Joy Reid pointed out that Scott was overwhelmingly elected in a predominantly Black city, suggesting that, by right-wing logic, a "diversity hire" would have been a white man.
Scott emphasized that Black men, particularly young Black men, have historically been portrayed negatively by racists.
He stated that "DEI" to him means "duly elected incumbent," suggesting that critics lack the courage to openly express racist views. Scott expressed pride in his heritage and suggested that his position challenges the comfortable status quo of those who hold racist beliefs.