‘Stay Away from Our Kids!’ – Florida AG Slams Target’s DEI Agenda

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is taking legal action against Target, accusing the retail giant of misleading investors through its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. During a segment of The Ingraham Angle, Uthmeier explained why his office is suing the company and how its controversial marketing decisions led to massive financial losses. He argued that Target’s actions violated its responsibility to shareholders, including Florida’s pension fund.

Target’s DEI Push Led to Financial Losses

Uthmeier pointed out that publicly traded companies have a duty to act in the best interest of their investors. However, Target’s decision to sell controversial merchandise, including children’s swimsuits with “tuck-friendly” features, sparked backlash. The fallout led to a boycott and a sharp decline in the company’s stock value. “They lost over $10 billion in just ten days,” Uthmeier said, emphasizing the impact on Florida’s pension investments.

He argued that the company failed to disclose the risks of its marketing strategy. Investors were not properly informed about how such decisions could harm the stock price. “If you are a publicly traded company, you have an obligation to provide value to shareholders,” he said. “Target ignored that obligation and suffered the consequences.”

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Florida’s lawsuit seeks to hold Target accountable for what Uthmeier described as reckless corporate behavior. He believes businesses should stay focused on their primary mission—serving customers and delivering financial returns—rather than engaging in ideological battles.

A Warning to Other Corporations

Beyond the lawsuit, Uthmeier sees Target’s financial losses as a lesson for corporate America. “More and more businesses are trying to get DEI out of their DNA,” he said. “That’s a good thing for the American people.” He warned that companies inserting themselves into divisive social issues risk alienating customers and damaging their bottom line.

Uthmeier also addressed concerns from parents, particularly mothers, who have voiced frustration over the increasing difficulty of finding appropriate children’s clothing. He acknowledged their concerns, adding that the backlash against Target reflected broader discontent with corporate activism. “I don’t want my kids growing up in a world where companies try to sexualize them at every turn,” he said.

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While some argue that consumers can simply choose not to shop at Target, Uthmeier rejected this as an adequate response. He stressed that publicly traded companies must act as responsible fiduciaries. “If a company’s actions harm its shareholders, it must be held accountable,” he said.

The Florida Attorney General’s case against Target could have far-reaching consequences. If successful, it may deter other corporations from engaging in similar political activism. Uthmeier remains firm in his stance that businesses should prioritize their customers and investors rather than advancing ideological agendas.

“This is about ensuring companies do what they were created to do—serve the people who support them,” he concluded. The lawsuit marks a significant challenge to the growing trend of corporate activism, and its outcome could set a precedent for how businesses navigate social and political issues in the future.

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