On Tuesday, Democratic Senator Ed Markey from Massachusetts sought interns who identify as non-white, LGBTQ+, or belong to other underrepresented groups. This has prompted concerns regarding potential violations of discrimination laws.
Markey announced that he is looking for “motivated and eager interns for the Spring 2027 semester” in his Boston office. He particularly encouraged applicants who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, working class, veterans, and those with connections to Massachusetts. He noted that applications are due by Monday, November 9th.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights were approached for comments about the possible legal implications but did not respond. Additionally, Markey’s office also did not reply to inquiries regarding this matter.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Markey has called for such specific applications; he had previously made a similar request back in July 2025. The push for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives is a consistent theme among Democrats, particularly during Joe Biden’s presidency.
However, his statements have drawn criticism, with some accusing him of discrimination against white applicants. Republican Representative Brandon Gill questioned on social media whether white men were still eligible to apply.
Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that an investigation into Markey’s hiring practices was warranted. The backlash seems to stem from a growing scrutiny over DEI initiatives, especially after President Trump rolled back various such programs early in his second term.
Following Trump’s executive order in January 2025 that targeted DEI programs, some companies have reconsidered their own policies on diversity. Moreover, a Supreme Court ruling from June 2023 declared that racial bias in college admissions was unconstitutional, suggesting a legal precedent against preferential treatment based on certain characteristics.
