Democrats in Virginia’s House of Delegates are drawing sharp criticism after introducing a resolution to establish a task force to review the future funding of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), a venerable military college founded in 1839. Critics warn the effort jeopardizes the school’s historic mission and may be part of a broader push to reinstate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in the state.
VMI, the oldest state‑supported military college in the nation, has produced more military generals than any other U.S. military program. Its alumni include Medal of Honor recipients and legendary leaders such as World War II commanders George C. Patton and George C. Marshall. Notable non‑military graduates include entertainers Mel Brooks, Fred Willard, and Dabney Coleman. Contemporary alumni include U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz and Lt. Gen. John “Dan” Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under President Trump.
The resolution comes alongside a separate bill to place VMI under the control of Virginia State University, intensifying concerns among supporters. Republicans argue the measures undermine an institute that has long been central to Virginia’s heritage and U.S. military leadership development.
“This takes away from VMI, takes away from its mission,” said Rep. Rob Wittman (R‑VA), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and former college cadet. He called the move “harmful to the Commonwealth of Virginia” and to the many leaders forged at VMI, condemning the task force initiative as misguided.
Rep. Pat Fallon (R‑TX), also on the House Armed Services Committee, accused newly elected Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) of driving the effort. “Less than a month in office… she has shown a commitment to turning the commonwealth into California,” he said, claiming the focus on VMI is not intended to benefit the military.
Spanberger earlier appointed former Gov. Ralph Northam, who previously scrutinized VMI’s DEI policies, to the school’s Board of Visitors. Critics argue Northam’s involvement signals a return to ideological oversight rather than support for the institution’s core mission.
The controversy has drawn bipartisan alarm. Constitutional scholar Jonathon Turley warned that VMI is at risk as part of a “radical agenda.” Even moderate voices weighed in, with Meghan McCain denouncing Spanberger on social media for what she described as unexpected leftward policy moves early in her term.
Supporters of VMI emphasize the institution’s historic contributions to national defense and leadership and argue that political interference threatens its future.
