In a significant move, the Trump administration has terminated approximately 17 independent inspectors general from various government agencies, a decision that has raised concerns among some congressional members about potential violations of federal oversight regulations. The dismissals that took place late Friday night were executed immediately, as revealed by two sources who chose to remain anonymous.
While the precise number of inspectors general removed has not been confirmed, an email sent by one of the dismissed individuals cited the figure of “roughly 17.” President Trump later acknowledged the actions during an engagement with reporters on Air Force One, asserting that such measures are routinely undertaken and promising to appoint capable replacements.
Notably, Congress was not provided the mandatory 30-day notice regarding these terminations, drawing criticism even from GOP members. Senator Chuck Grassley, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, expressed the need for further clarification from President Trump regarding the reasons behind the firings while emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal requirements for such actions.
The establishment of inspectors general traces back to the post-Watergate era when Congress aimed to ensure accountability within federal agencies. Though these positions are filled at the discretion of the President, holders of this office are expected to operate independently and impartially, often serving under administrations from both major parties.
Senator Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., acknowledged the legality issues surrounding the dismissals but suggested that compliance with the law should simply be improved for the future. Conversely, Democrats and advocacy groups express serious unease about the implications of these firings, claiming that it could pave the way for government exploitation. Max Stier, the president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, underscored the critical role inspectors general play in safeguarding public resources and curbing potential misconduct.
Meanwhile, the White House refrained from commenting on the matter. President Trump was occupied with a speech in Las Vegas that focused on eliminating federal taxes on tips, which aligns with his broader initiative to reform the federal bureaucracy upon resuming office. Throughout his first week back at the White House, Trump has implemented several changes through executive orders, including a hiring freeze and limitations on diversity initiatives, alongside controversial proposals like dismantling the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Senator Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader, characterized the dismissals as a “chilling purge,” asserting that it reflects the troubling direction in which the Trump administration is heading. He also noted that these actions could be contrary to federal statute, emphasizing potential risks of escalating governmental abuse or corruption.
Reports indicate that among those removed were inspectors general from critical departments including Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, and Education. Hannibal Ware, chair of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, highlighted the fundamental nonpartisan nature of these roles, asserting that the law mandates a 30-day notice to Congress before any firing can take place.
Michael Horowitz, the veteran inspector general from the Justice Department, notably retained his position. He has previously authored influential reports, including one regarding the FBI’s actions during the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 elections. Trump praised Horowitz’s work, denoting it as exemplary.
The mass dismissals have attracted considerable backlash from various congressional Democrats. Senator Amy Klobuchar highlighted the essential role of inspectors general in uncovering waste and fraud within the federal government, labeling the dismissals as concerning. Representative Gerald Connolly described the situation as a “coup” against legally protected watchdogs, alarmed that it could allow for the placement of politically aligned individuals in critical oversight roles.
Trump’s historical pattern of challenging the authority of independent watchdogs was evident in prior actions where he replaced numerous inspectors general, particularly in the Defense and intelligence sectors. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the recent firings, claiming they threaten the foundational checks on presidential power and set the stage for rampant corruption.
