[Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley is seeking “further explanation” from President Donald Trump for the reported firing of at least a dozen inspectors general from multiple federal agencies. The firings were carried out via email from the White House personnel director without prior notice to Congress, which is a violation of federal law requiring a 30-day notice.
Grassley, a Republican and long-time supporter of inspectors general, said that there may be good reason for the firings, but emphasized the need for explanation from the President. Inspectors general are responsible for rooting out government waste, fraud, abuse, and preventing misconduct.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer described the firings as a “chilling purge” and warned that it could lead to a “golden age for abuse in government, and even corruption.” Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts wrote that the firings were a move by Trump to dismantle checks on his power and pave the way for widespread corruption.
In 2020, CNN reported that Trump had also fired inspectors general on multiple occasions, leading to the introduction of new laws aimed at protecting the positions. However, this development has raised concerns that the Trump administration is attempting to undermine the watchdogs and hinder transparency.
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