Trump Fires 17 Federal Watchdogs
The Facts
US Pres. Donald Trump on Friday terminated 17 inspectors general across multiple federal agencies through immediate dismissal notices sent via email from the White House personnel director, affecting watchdogs at major departments including State, Defense, and Transportation.
The dismissals appeared to violate federal law requiring 30-day advance notice to Congress before removing inspectors general. In 2022, Congress strengthened this requirement, making it harder to replace watchdogs with hand-picked officials.
Although the White House didn't provide official justification for the removals, Trump later characterized the firings as "a very standard thing to do." At least one watchdog received an email citing "changing priorities" for her firing.
The Spin
Republican narrative
The mass removal of inspectors general is another necessary step toward demolishing the deep state. These watchdogs serve at the pleasure of the president, and Trump is correct in seeking people he best feels will root out fraud and abuse in the federal government.
