Indiana Lt. Gov. Criticizes Democrats' Views on Three-Fifths Compromise

Indianapolis, IN - Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith has publicly criticized Democratic interpretations of the Three-Fifths Compromise, a historical agreement that determined how enslaved people would be counted for representation and taxation purposes. Beckwith characterized the Democrats' approach as "radical revisionist history," arguing that it misrepresents the complexities of the past. His comments came during a speech supporting a GOP bill designed to curb Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within state institutions.

The Three-Fifths Compromise, adopted during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, stipulated that three-fifths of the enslaved population would be counted for both representation in Congress and for the purpose of taxation. While often viewed as a concession to slaveholding states, Beckwith contends that the compromise should be understood within its historical context. He believes current Democratic narratives fail to acknowledge the nuances of the debate surrounding the compromise and its impact on the nation's early development.

Beckwith's defense of the anti-DEI bill centers on the belief that such initiatives can promote division rather than unity. He argues that focusing on individual merit and equality of opportunity is a more effective approach to fostering inclusivity. The debate over DEI and historical interpretation is expected to continue during the current legislative session.