Trump Removes Federal Watchdogs As Part Of Deep State Overhaul

Seventeen inspectors general were fired from their positions across various federal agencies Friday night as President Donald Trump took action to reshape the government and eliminate resistance to his policies. The terminated officials were informed via email by the White House Presidential Personnel Office.

Among those removed were inspectors at the Department of Defense, Department of State and Department of Veterans Affairs. These watchdogs, tasked with investigating fraud and misconduct, often operate independently from the administration they serve under.

The sudden firings have led to pushback from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) expressed concern that the administration failed to follow the legal requirement of notifying Congress 30 days in advance before dismissing inspectors general. Grassley stated that the removals raise questions that need to be addressed.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) criticized Trump’s actions, arguing that removing independent oversight officials undermines transparency and accountability. She claimed the firings were politically motivated and could erode public trust in federal institutions.

Trump’s administration has made it clear that eliminating bureaucratic opposition is a top priority. Over the past week, the president has moved swiftly to implement his agenda, removing officials he believes hinder his plans for government reform.

While many inspectors general were removed, Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz, who led the review of the FBI’s handling of the Russia investigation, was not affected. Horowitz’s investigations exposed significant errors in the FBI’s FISA application process.