The NPR Politics Podcast Homeland Security Staff Want Biden To Oust Watchdog, A Trump Pick
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Oct 19, 2022 A Trump-appointed watchdog at the Department of Homeland Security faces calls for dismissal due to significant turnover among attorneys, jeopardizing effective oversight. Ethical concerns loom over his appointment and past behavior. The podcast delves into the Secret Service's controversial actions during the January 6th Capitol attack, including missing text messages. It also highlights the crucial role of inspectors general, the political challenges of dismissing such officials, and the ongoing demand for transparency and accountability in government.
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High Staff Turnover at DHS
- The Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General, Joseph Cuffari, has overseen significant staff turnover since his appointment.
- More than 30 lawyers have left the Office of Counsel, hindering oversight of the DHS and its agencies.
Missing Secret Service Texts
- The DHS Inspector General, Joseph Cuffari, appointed by Trump, reportedly delayed investigation into missing Secret Service text messages.
- These messages, related to the January 6th attack, were later found to be deleted, raising concerns about oversight failures.
Limited Recourse for Employees
- DHS employees have limited recourse against Cuffari, including writing an anonymous letter to President Biden requesting his removal.
- Biden's potential action is complex due to his past criticism of Trump's dismissal of watchdogs.