Fact Check: Charlie Kirk suggests the high death toll from the Texas flooding tragedy was because of DEI: 'The death toll likely would not have been as high if it wasn't for DEI."

Fact Check: Charlie Kirk Blames DEI for Texas Flood Death Toll

What We Know

Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing commentator, made a controversial claim regarding the high death toll from catastrophic flooding in Texas. During a broadcast on Real America’s Voice, he stated that the death toll, which has exceeded 100, "likely would not have been as high if it wasn't for DEI" (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in emergency services (source-2). Kirk specifically criticized the Austin Fire Chief, labeling him a "DEI hire" and suggesting that this impacted the emergency response during the floods (source-1).

The floods, which occurred in early July 2025, resulted in at least 119 deaths and left over 170 people missing, with most fatalities reported in Kerr County (source-3). Kirk's comments have sparked significant backlash, with critics labeling his statements as "idiotic" and "despicable" (source-6).

Analysis

Kirk's assertion that DEI initiatives contributed to the high death toll is a reflection of a broader narrative among some right-wing commentators who attribute various societal issues to such policies. His comments suggest a direct causal relationship between DEI and the emergency response's effectiveness, a claim that lacks empirical support.

Critics argue that Kirk's statements are not only unfounded but also politically motivated, aiming to shift blame away from systemic issues in emergency management and preparedness (source-5). The assertion that DEI undermines meritocracy is a common talking point among certain political factions, but it is often criticized for lacking substantive evidence and for oversimplifying complex issues (source-7).

Moreover, the response from local officials during the flooding has been scrutinized, with reports indicating that there were significant lapses in emergency alerts and preparedness that contributed to the tragedy (source-4). This suggests that the high death toll may be more accurately attributed to failures in emergency management rather than the influence of DEI policies.

Conclusion

The claim made by Charlie Kirk that the high death toll from the Texas flooding was exacerbated by DEI initiatives is True in the sense that he did make this statement publicly. However, the reasoning behind his assertion lacks credible evidence and is widely criticized as politically motivated. The complexities surrounding emergency response and the factors contributing to the tragedy are not adequately addressed by attributing blame to DEI.

Sources

1. Charlie Kirk blames Austin fire chief and DEI for flood deaths
2. MAGA influencer Charlie Kirk claims Texas flood death toll '...
3. MAGA influencer Charlie Kirk claims Texas flood death toll ...
4. Video: Charlie Kirk Blames DEI for Texas Flood Deaths?!
5. MAGA influencer Charlie Kirk claims Texas flood death toll '...
6. 'Despicable': 'Idiotic' MAGA Podcaster Charlie Kirk Blames ...
7. Right-Wing Commentator Charlie Kirk Blames Texas Flood ...
8. Right wing podcaster blames Austin fire chief and DEI for ...