In a sweeping move, the Trump administration fired approximately 17 independent inspectors general at government agencies, sparking outrage from congressional members who claim the action violates federal oversight laws. The dismissals, which began on Friday night, were effective immediately, with neither the exact number of firings nor the reasons behind them being officially confirmed.

Senator Chuck Grassley, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, expressed concerns over the lack of transparency, stating, “There may be good reason the IGs were fired. We need to know that if so… I’d like further explanation from President Trump.” Grassley also emphasized that the 30-day notice period required by law was not provided to Congress.

Inspectors general serve as independent watchdogs within government agencies, tasked with identifying mismanagement, abuse of power, and waste. Their removal has raised concerns about the potential for corruption and abuse within the administration.

Graham

Senator Lindsey Graham acknowledged that the firings may have violated statutes but downplayed the issue, saying, “Just tell them you need to follow the law next time.” In contrast, Democrats and watchdog groups have condemned the move, with Senator Elizabeth Warren calling it “a purge of independent watchdogs in the middle of the night.”

Stier

Max Stier, president and CEO of the nonpartisan Partnership for Public Service, emphasized the importance of inspectors general, stating, “Their work saves the taxpayer tens of billions of dollars every year.” The White House has not commented on the matter.

The firings have sparked concerns about the potential for corruption and abuse within the administration, with Representative Gerald Connolly warning that “replacing independent inspectors general with political hacks will harm every American who relies on social security, veterans benefits, and a fair hearing at IRS on refunds and audits.”