Why are companies getting rid of DEI?

Many companies' decisions to overturn DEI came after conservatives online specifically targeted them for their policies and threatened boycotts. Failed filmmaker turned failed congressional candidate Robby Starbuck has taken credit for spearheading the movement and influencing the companies' decisions, however that Starbuck's pressure alone does not explain the shift.

Meta recently announced the end of its DEI programs almost immediately after announcing new content rules that allow users to abuse LGBTQ+ people, citing the shifting "legal and policy landscape surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in the United States." McDonald's also cited Supreme Court decision against affirmative action in its decision to end DEI programs the, as well as changes among "other companies."

When defending its DEI policies, Costco accused the right-wing group that lobbied against them of manufacturing "burdens on companies with their challenges to longstanding diversity programs," adding that conservatives' "broader agenda is not reducing risk for the Company but abolition of diversity initiatives."