Trump Removes Inspectors General As Part Of Federal Shakeup

President Donald Trump has taken swift action to remove 17 inspectors general from federal agencies, marking a major shift in government oversight. The terminated officials, who were responsible for investigating fraud and abuse, were notified of their dismissals late Friday via email from the White House Presidential Personnel Office.

The dismissals affected oversight officials in multiple departments, including Defense, State and Veterans Affairs. Inspectors general are tasked with conducting investigations to ensure agencies operate efficiently and without corruption.

The firings have sparked legal concerns, with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) pointing out that federal law mandates a 30-day advance notice to Congress before such terminations occur. He called for the White House to provide further details on the reasoning behind the sudden removals.

Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), criticized the move, arguing that it threatens the integrity of government operations. Warren described the action as a direct attack on accountability, warning that it could pave the way for mismanagement and corruption within federal agencies.

Trump’s administration has defended the move as part of a broader effort to streamline government functions and eliminate resistance to his policies. Throughout his presidency, Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration with career bureaucrats he believes obstruct his agenda.

Despite the widespread firings, Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz was not among those dismissed. Horowitz is known for his critical report on the FBI’s handling of surveillance warrants in the Russia investigation.