WASHINGTON, D.C. | April 07, 2020 — President Trump’s removal of acting Department of Defense Inspector General Glenn Fine, who had been playing a leadership role on coronavirus spending accountability, is a clear rebuke of Congress’ determination that Inspector Generals act as true “watchdogs,” serving as its eyes and ears to guarantee that ethical and honest behavior prevails in the executive branch. The nation’s ability to address problems ranging from the ongoing pandemic and the climate change crisis, depends on this oversight.
The President’s removal of IG Fine follows his notice of intent to terminate the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community, Michael Atkinson, and his unsupported attack on the Principal Deputy Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services’ report on coronavirus preparedness.
John Kostyack, NWC Executive Director, stated: “We call upon Congress to fulfill its constitutional role and to hold the President accountable for undermining the Inspector General system. Unless Congress steps in, Inspectors General in every department and agency who dare to do their jobs will be at risk. The American people, who depend on Inspectors General to support whistleblowers in their efforts to ferret out corruption, need action now.”
For more information, please contact Nick Younger at nick.younger@whistleblowers.org.
