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July 19, 2024
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By Evans Momodu
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Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) has criticised President Donald Trump for firing 18 inspectors general late Friday, accusing the president of violating the Inspector General Act, a law designed to protect these watchdog officials from undue termination.
Schiff described Trump’s actions as a clear violation of the law, dismissing Senator Lindsey Graham’s (R-S.C.) attempts to downplay the issue.
Schiff warned that the dismissals could lead to widespread corruption, stating, "If we don’t have good and independent inspectors general, we are going to see a swamp refill."
He suggested that Trump’s goal might be to remove oversight figures who could expose misconduct, calling the move a blow to government accountability.
Graham acknowledged during the same program that Trump “technically” broke the law but expressed little concern. He defended Trump’s intent to "bring fresh eyes" to Washington, arguing that inspectors general had not effectively served the American people.
Inspectors general are independent watchdogs responsible for investigating allegations of waste, fraud, and abuse within federal agencies. Their independence is regarded as essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.
The mass dismissals have raised concerns about reduced oversight and the weakening of legal protections for inspectors general, fuelling debates over the balance of power and accountability in the executive branch.
Source: NBC
