In 2006, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 2, ending state-sponsored discrimination via race-based preferences in college admissions, hiring, and contracting. But a recent federal court ruling has temporarily overturned the will of Michigan voters, opening the door for affirmative action's return to Michigan.

The Bush administration should either make the principled argument that preferences to achieve diversity in K-12 grades is wrong and defend it courageously in public--or stay out completely.