Trump Fires 17 Inspectors General, USDA Official Escorted Out After Refusing Dismissal

The dismissals have sparked legal and bipartisan concerns over potential violations of federal protocols designed to protect independent watchdogs.

President Donald Trump dismissed 17 federal inspectors general, including USDA's Phyllis Fong, shortly after beginning his second term.
Fong, a 22-year USDA veteran, resisted her termination, citing violations of federal law requiring 30 days' notice to Congress with detailed justification.
Conflicting accounts emerged regarding Fong's removal, with some reports stating she was escorted out by security, while the USDA claimed she left voluntarily.
The firings have drawn bipartisan criticism, with figures like Senator Chuck Grassley questioning their legality and compliance with federal statutes.
Fong's office had been involved in high-profile investigations, including one into Elon Musk's Neuralink, raising concerns about the motivations behind her dismissal.