Secretary of State Marco Rubio has mandated a return to the Times New Roman font for U.S. diplomatic correspondence, effective immediately. This decision reverses a previous change to Calibri, a move Rubio described as wasteful, confusing, and inappropriate for government documents.
In a cable sent to all U.S. embassies and consulates, Rubio emphasized the importance of typography in conveying professionalism and formality in official documents. He criticized the 2023 adoption of Calibri, which he attributed to misguided diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies under Antony Blinken, the former Secretary of State. Rubio’s order aims to restore the traditional font, which had been a standard in past administrations.
“Typography shapes how official documents are perceived in terms of cohesion, professionalism, and formality,” Rubio stated in the cable. He argued that the shift to Calibri failed to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities, despite claims that it would do so. According to Rubio, this transition cost the State Department approximately $145,000, though he did not provide evidence to support this figure.
Since assuming office in January, Rubio has pursued a systematic dismantling of DEI initiatives within the State Department, aligning with President Donald Trump’s directive to return to merit-based standards across federal agencies. This has included the elimination of offices and programs aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion both in Washington and at diplomatic missions abroad. Additionally, funding for DEI projects in foreign assistance has been cut.
Rubio characterized the switch to Calibri as a cosmetic change that did not contribute positively to departmental correspondence. “Switching to Calibri achieved nothing except the degradation of the department’s correspondence,” he noted, highlighting that it conflicted with the State Department’s official letterhead.
The memo issued to department employees clarified that the transition back to Times New Roman takes effect immediately. All templates for official documents are to be updated to reflect this change, with the exception of documents prepared for international treaties and presidential appointments, which will continue to utilize Courier New in 12-point font.
This font change marks a significant shift in the State Department’s approach to official documentation, reflecting a broader political strategy that prioritizes traditional standards over modern practices adopted in recent years.
