Bilirakis Responds to Medical Field Allegdly Embracing DEI Standards

Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) provided a statement after political commentator Ben Shapiro posted a thread on social media detailing the rise of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) standards within the medical field.

The thread also demonstrates the consequences of implementing these standards.

Rep. Bilirakis, a Senior Member of the Health Subcommittee, gave his thoughts relating to Shapiro’s findings.

“There is no place for identity politics, discrimination and DEI in medicine – it risks lives. Americans deserve to know their medical professionals are the most qualified candidate available, that grants awards are based on the most promising outcomes, and that all patients are treated equally without regard to their race or political views,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “As a senior member of the Health Subcommittee, I will be leading the charge to uphold this basic standard of care and hold those who violate it accountable.”

Earlier this month, Rep. Bilirakis introduced legislation to fight congenital heart disease.

The Florida congressman reached across the aisle to introduce the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill “reauthorizes funding for critical research and awareness efforts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the causes, prevention, and development of better treatments for patients suffering with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).”

According to Rep. Bilirakis’ press release, congenital heart disease is the most common birth defect as approximately 40,000 babies are born with the condition every year.

The Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act of 2024 would extend the National Congenital Heart Disease Research, Surveillance, and Awareness program through Fiscal Year 2029.

Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Buddy Carter (R-GA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) alongside Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Todd Young (R-IL) joined forces to introduce the legislation.

Rep. Bilirakis mentioned that this bill would bring us “one step closer” to improving the lives of those with the disease.

"As a co-founder of the Congenital Heart Caucus, I’ve become familiar with the struggles patients with congenital heart disease and their families face. Our legislation will bring us one step closer to enhancing better treatment options and improving outcomes for all patients suffering with this condition. We’ve seen that this program yields positive results, and I urge my colleagues to join us as we work to help future generations live longer, healthier lives," said Bilirakis.

Congressman Bilirakis represents Florida’s 12^th District.