Marco Rubio Reverses Biden Policy, Orders Times New Roman as Official US Font

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered diplomats to switch official documents back to Times New Roman. The directive reverses a 2023 move to the Calibri typeface. The new rule takes effect immediately across the State Department.

This change is part of a broader push by the current administration. It overturns a policy linked to prior diversity and accessibility initiatives.

Font Shift Tied to Broader Policy Reversal

According to reports from CNN and The Hill, Rubio framed the serif font as more formal. He issued a cable calling the prior Calibri shift a degradation of departmental correspondence. The move aligns with a “One Voice for America’s Foreign Relations” directive.

Rubio has directly linked the original font change to Biden-era DEI policies. His order is part of a wider effort to dismantle related offices and programs. The administration views typography as key to perceived professionalism and cohesion.

Designer Surprised, Exemptions Detailed

Calibri’s designer, Lucas de Groot, told CNN he found the reversal shocking and sad. He designed Calibri for on-screen readability and rejected the idea fonts carry political meaning. De Groot called the return to Times New Roman a step into the past.

The new rule applies to most diplomatic communications. International treaties and presidential appointment papers are exempt. Those documents must still use Courier New in 12-point size.

The shift to Times New Roman marks a clear stylistic and ideological reversal for US diplomacy. This font change underscores the administration’s focus on traditional presentation. The policy is now active for American diplomats worldwide.

Thought you’d like to know

What font did the State Department use before?

Before this change, the department used Calibri. That was adopted in 2023 under Secretary Antony Blinken.

Why was Calibri originally chosen?

Internal groups recommended it for accessibility. They argued sans-serif fonts like Calibri can be easier for people with dyslexia or visual impairments to read.

What did Marco Rubio say about the old font?

Rubio said the Calibri policy “achieved nothing except the degradation of the department’s correspondence.” He linked it to DEI programs his administration is reversing.

Are any documents exempt from the new rule?

Yes. International treaties and presidential appointment papers are exempt. They must continue using Courier New in 12-point font as required by existing rules.

Is this part of a larger political trend?

Yes. The Trump administration has broadly targeted federal DEI programs. This font reversal is seen as a symbolic part of that wider policy shift.