The Biden White House is going after a House Republican defense policy bill that seeks to eliminate harmful “woke” policies within the Pentagon, including the hosting of sexual drag queen shows on military bases, Fox News Digital reports.

In response, the Biden administration released a statement defending the Department of Defense’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programs, while condemning specific amendments proposed by Republicans in the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2024.

Matt Gaetz shows Lloyd Austin and Milley proof of drag shows on military bases and ‘diversity’ books, yet they deny them! pic.twitter.com/nAVeDisEiy

— 🇺🇸ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) March 29, 2023

The White House statement attempted to emphasize the importance of DoD’s “diverse” talent pool and the need for diverse perspectives, experiences, and skillsets to maintain the country’s global leadership and national security.

“DoD’s strategic advantage in a complex global security environment is the diverse and dynamic talent pool from which we draw,” the White House said. “We rely on diverse perspectives, experiences, and skillsets to remain a global leader, deter war, and keep our nation secure.”

“Moreover, DoD is committed to developing and maintaining a dignified, respectful, and safe workplace,” it added. “Legislation that reduces DoD’s ability to create a positive work environment and fully leverage the best our nation has to offer puts the Department at a strategic disadvantage.”

President Joe Biden struggled in a pre-recorded 4th of July address to thank U.S. servicemembers "serverin' our nation." He also marked the 75th anniversary of the desegregation of the military and the official integration of women. pic.twitter.com/tSLvsu2vkw

— Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) July 4, 2023

Republicans have slammed DEIA programs, characterizing them as distractions from the military’s primary responsibilities. Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), one of the authors of the amendments criticized by the Biden administration, stated that these measures are necessary to ensure that national security takes precedence over social initiatives within the military.

On the 4th take a minute to honor the new military Joe Biden and Mark Milley have formed. Free from toxic men who were skilled at killing people and breaking things, the new military is diverse and compassionate. pic.twitter.com/ETd1oMYaqh

— @amuse (@amuse) July 2, 2023

The House Republicans proposed over 1,300 amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act, which is expected to be taken up for consideration this week. However, given the Democratic majority in the Senate, it is unlikely that the same language will be approved. This disparity may lead to a House-Senate conference to reconcile the differing views between the two chambers.