A recent survey examining diversity within Senate Democratic offices has highlighted significant variations in staff composition. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Jon Tester (D-MT) were found to have the lowest representation of non-Caucasian staff members, at 12% and 13% respectively. These figures trail behind Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), both of whom have staffs comprised of 15% non-Caucasian individuals.

The survey also revealed a lack of Latino representation within Senator Tester's office, while only 2% of Senator Manchin's staff identify as Latino. Furthermore, Senator Manchin's office was the only one surveyed without any LGBTQ+ identifying staff members.

Both Manchin and Tester, facing re-election in 2024 in states previously won by Donald Trump, have been contacted for comment regarding these findings. In contrast, Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) boasts the most diverse staff, with 71% identifying as non-Caucasian. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) follows closely behind at 68%, and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) at 67%.

Among Senate committees, the Indian Affairs and Small Business committees exhibited the highest diversity, while the Environment and Public Works committee had the lowest. This survey is a component of the Senate Democrats’ Diversity Initiative, established in 2007 by then-Majority Leader Harry Reid. The initiative emphasizes a broad definition of diversity encompassing race, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and veteran status.

Within Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office, 49% of staff identify as non-Caucasian, and 16% as LGBTQ+. Black and Latino staff members each represent 15% of his office's composition.