Trump's Firing of Independent Watchdogs Draws Criticism

Sacking of 17 inspectors-general at govt agencies clears way to install loyalists

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WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump's late-night firing of inspectors-general at multiple government agencies was criticized as illegal on Jan 25 by Democrats and others, and drew concern from at least one fellow Republican.

In what critics called a late-night purge, Mr. Trump fired 17 independent watchdogs on Jan 24, a person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, a move that clears the way to replace independent watchdogs with loyalists.

Senator Adam Schiff, a long-time Democratic antagonist of Mr. Trump, said the action was a clear violation of the law.

"Trump wants no accountability for malfeasance in office," Mr. Schiff said in a post on platform X. "He is refilling the swamp."

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Mr. Trump defended the move, saying "it is a very common thing to do". He did not say who would be installed in the vacant posts.

The inspectors-general at agencies including the departments of state, defense, and transportation were notified by emails from the White House personnel director that their services had been terminated immediately, the source told Reuters on condition of anonymity.