#shorts Kennedy: That’s true. But here’s what I’m getting at. Do you think it’s fair for the University of New Mexico and the University of South Carolina, two extraordinary schools, to say to an applicant who’s borrowed hundreds of thousands of dollars to get her PhD, and who comes forward and they say, “How do you feel about race?” and they say, “I believe in racial equality, I believe everybody should be treated the same,” they get an F? They’re dismissed summarily. You think that’s fair to do that with your money, with taxpayer money?

Tabak: Again, sir, I can’t speak to the specifics of these institutions, and I will look into it.
Kennedy: Would if it’s true, do you support that?
Tabak: Again, I’d have to see what exactly it is,
Kennedy: but if it’s true, do you support it?
Tabak: I… What we are trying to do, sir, is create inclusive environments because, unfortunately, far too often, certain individuals

On 5/4/2023, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), ranking member of the Senate Appropriations questioned NIH Dir. Tabak. The official could not or would not provide clear answers.

Q: they get an F: “I believe in racial equality, I believe everybody should be treated the same”