Trial Begins Over Affirmative Action at Military Academies

Students for Fair Admissions seeks to end race-conscious admissions at U.S. Naval Academy and West Point.

The trial in Baltimore aims to challenge the exemption allowing military academies to use affirmative action in admissions.
Students for Fair Admissions, led by Edward Blum, previously won a Supreme Court case against affirmative action in college admissions.
The 2023 Supreme Court ruling did not address military academies, citing their 'distinct interests' in promoting diversity.
The Department of Justice argues that diversity in the officer corps is crucial for military readiness and cohesion.
U.S. District Judge Richard Bennett, who has a military background, will preside over the trial, which is expected to draw national attention.