February 11, 2025
Dear Senator:
As civil society organizations from across the political spectrum, we write to express our deep concern about President Trump’s removal of at least 17 inspectors general (IG) on January 24, 2025 without notice to Congress as required by law.[1]
Congress established offices of inspectors general in the wake of Watergate to guard against waste, fraud, and abuse of power within government agencies. Their independence is critical to provide objective and uncompromised reviews of their agencies. IGs are especially important during times of presidential transition to ensure that agencies continue to operate effectively and serve the public.
IGs are uniquely positioned to give Congress the information it needs to conduct effective oversight and pass meaningful legislation. The removal of multiple inspectors general at once raises significant concerns about maintaining the integrity and continuity of oversight. These abrupt dismissals undermine the ability of IGs to conduct thorough and impartial investigations, potentially deterring accountability at a critical time.
It is essential that the Senate act now to reaffirm its oversight role and demand full explanations from President Trump as to why each inspector general was removed, as mandated by law. Transparency in these decisions will help uphold the independence of IGs and ensure they can continue their essential work. We urge the Senate to prioritize this issue and press for answers without delay.
Inspectors general are a cornerstone of independent oversight. We urge your immediate attention and action.
Sincerely,
American Oversight
Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW)
Hispanic Leadership Fund
National Taxpayers Union
Project On Government Oversight
Public Citizen
R Street Institute
Taxpayers for Common Sense
Taxpayers Protection Alliance
[1] Letter from Hannibal “Mike” Ware, Chairperson, Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, to Sergio Gor, Director of Presidential Personnel, The White House, about inspectors general attempted removal, January 24, 2025, https://static.politico.com/b3/3e/5baf92224503a3cfa8edb460a1c2/cigie-letter-to-white-house-1-24-2025.pdf.