America First Legal (AFL) has initiated legal action against the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), accusing it of illegally concealing records related to political appointees within the agency. This lawsuit is part of AFL's broader effort to identify individuals implementing the Biden-Harris agenda within federal institutions.
The group has filed Freedom of Information Act requests and lawsuits aiming to obtain these records for publication in their interactive database, the Woke Wagon. The focus is on appointees' resumes and qualifications as AFL seeks transparency regarding those involved in promoting what they describe as a radical "equity" agenda.
The Justice40 Initiative, a key element of the Biden-Harris Administration's policy framework, aims to ensure that 40 percent of certain federal investments benefit disadvantaged communities. It has already secured around $613 billion for over 500 programs across 19 federal agencies. CEQ plays a critical role in this initiative by developing tools such as the Environmental Justice Scorecard and Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST). These tools aim to address racial inequities while ensuring compliance with legal standards.
In early 2023, federal agencies were instructed by the administration to update policies ensuring equitable access for underserved communities. Following this directive, FEMA announced prioritization for projects addressing disadvantaged communities’ needs, incorporating CEQ's screening tool into its grant processes.
Brenda Mallory, Chair of CEQ, has been instrumental in leading efforts focused on environmental justice and diversity initiatives. AFL seeks more information about her background and other political appointees at CEQ under the current administration.
Gene Hamilton, Executive Director of America First Legal, stated: “So-called ‘equity’ has infected and affected every facet of the federal government, including at the Biden-Harris CEQ... We are going to do everything in our power to uncover exactly who is pulling the strings behind the scenes and expose this unlawful activity.”