Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio is seeking explanations from the mayor of Cincinnati regarding a new city ordinance. This ordinance involves reorganizing procurement under a Department of Economic Inclusion and Procurement. Moreno argues that taxpayer money should not fund what he sees as an expanding DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) bureaucracy, which he suggests may be illegal.

“Taxpayers should never foot the bill for woke DEI policies or initiatives,” Moreno stated in a letter addressed to Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval. “Cincinnati’s taxpayers deserve a government that rewards competence and merit” rather than preferences based on race or ethnicity.

The ordinance, approved by the Cincinnati City Council in June, aims to create the new department. Moreno believes this expands the city’s DEI initiatives and may incorporate DEI considerations into the city’s contracting process. City documents cited by Moreno claim this restructuring will make contracting more efficient while maintaining a focus on DEI.

Moreno’s letter, also sent to the Justice Department, argues that the ordinance ignores previous Justice Department guidance against “unlawful discrimination.” Under President Trump’s administration, there was a focus on ending DEI programs across federal agencies.

“The days of choosing public contract winners based on excellence are back,” Moreno emphasized. He insisted that “the City of Cincinnati must be a better steward of public funds.” City officials have explained that the restructuring aims to strengthen the focus on inclusion in the contracting process.

Moreno requested that Mayor Pureval provide details within five business days regarding federal funding received during fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026. He also asked for information on the projected cost of the ordinance and the process for awarding city contracts. The senator underscored the need for Cincinnati to prioritize its $30 million budget deficit and public safety instead of expanding DEI programs.

“The adoption of this Ordinance represents a gross misallocation of resources at a time when the city faces a rise in violent crime,” Moreno stated. He urged that public funds be redirected to enhance safety in Cincinnati rather than support divisive policies.

Fox News Digital sought a comment from Mayor Pureval’s office on this matter.