U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed 17 independent watchdogs in a late-night action on Friday, a move that has ignited widespread criticism and allegations of legal violations. The firings have paved the way for the installation of loyalists in these oversight positions, raising alarms among lawmakers and watchdog groups. The action was swiftly condemned by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff as a "clear violation of the law" due to the absence of a required 30-day advance notice to Congress, complete with a detailed rationale for each dismissal.
In an unprecedented sweep, the firings affected inspectors general across several key departments, including State, Defense, and Transportation. These officials were notified of their terminations via email from White House personnel director Sergio Gor. Notably spared in this purge was the Department of Justice’s inspector general, Michael Horowitz. U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley expressed his concern over the lack of transparent communication from the administration, emphasizing the need for a substantive explanation for each removal.
"Trump wants no accountability for malfeasance in office," remarked U.S. Senator Adam Schiff.
The White House has remained silent on requests for comment regarding the dismissals. According to The Washington Post, most of the terminated inspectors general were appointed during Trump's first term from 2017 to 2021. This strategic reshuffling appears to be part of a broader effort by President Trump to reshape the federal bureaucracy, which has included actions such as scrapping diversity programs and rescinding job offers.
"He is refilling the swamp," added U.S. Senator Adam Schiff.
The Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) has indicated that these firings might contravene federal law. CIGIE Chair Hannibal Ware advised White House personnel director Sergio Gor to consult with the White House counsel to ensure compliance with legal statutes governing these dismissals.
President Trump defended his decision by stating,
"it's a very common thing to do."
Despite this justification, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer described the firings as a "chilling purge" and warned of a "lawless approach" from the Trump administration. This sentiment was echoed by many who view the action as an attempt to eliminate independent oversight within key government agencies.
The special inspector general for Afghanistan reconstruction, John Sopko, was among those dismissed, further fueling concerns about oversight in critical areas of federal expenditure and policy. The absence of a detailed 30-day notice to Congress has been criticized by both Democrats and some Republicans. Senator Grassley highlighted the administration's failure to adhere to statutory protocols designed to safeguard the independence of inspectors general.
Senator John Barrasso, a fellow Republican, expressed his belief that President Trump would make wise decisions regarding the appointment of new inspectors general. However, this viewpoint did little to quell the growing unease about the potential implications for governmental transparency and accountability.
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