The Feds 94. COVID Retaliation Continues 5 YEARS Later!! | Mark Pemberton | The Feds
Jul 8, 2025
Mark Pemberton, a seasoned State Department law enforcement officer, shares his harrowing experience of retaliation after refusing to comply with COVID-19 mandates. He discusses how his decisions to decline certain tests led to being labeled an “insider threat” and facing a proposed suspension. The conversation dives into the broader implications of disciplinary actions against dissenters and the emotional toll of being accused of extremism due to personal beliefs. Mark’s story highlights the ongoing struggle for accountability and personal integrity in the face of institutional pressure.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Refusal to Sign COVID Pledge
- Mark Pemberton refused to sign a COVID-19 training pledge that required compliance with CDC guidelines outside work hours due to his religious beliefs and integrity concerns.
- His refusal marked the beginning of ongoing retaliation including removal from training and criticism by leadership.
Refusal of COVID Testing and Retaliation
- Mark was ordered to take a COVID-19 test which was under Emergency Use Authorization not for asymptomatic testing.
- He refused, citing concerns about accuracy and consent, resulting in removal from a deployment and being labeled an "insider threat."
Labeled Insider Threat Over Religious Expression
- Mark was labeled an insider threat due to social media posts of Christian prayers and expressing family values, which were mischaracterized as white nationalism.
- This led to a prolonged investigation and attempts at criminal prosecution despite his exemplary job performance.