Tucker Carlson argues that merit-based hiring standards have collapsed across American institutions, framing it as a warning for anyone who depends on competent emergency services.

• The core claim: hiring rules have been loosened so far that being less capable can now help a candidate get the job.
• Firefighting is used as the example — people who cannot physically do the work still being placed in the role.
• The argument is that diversity hiring is sold as empowerment and self-esteem, but shifts the focus away from the people who need rescuing.
• Carlson goes further, calling it deliberate damage to the country rather than a well-meaning policy that went wrong.

Outlook: Expect fights over hiring standards in fire departments, police, and the military to stay a central theme in US political and media battles.