The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: The U.S. Foreign Service at a ‘Breaking Point,’ with John Dinkelman
Jan 14, 2026
In this enlightening discussion, John Dinkelman, president of the American Foreign Service Association and a veteran diplomat, unveils alarming findings from AFSA's latest report on the U.S. Foreign Service. He reveals how a recent survey highlighted critically low morale among diplomats, attributing this to budget cuts and fears of retaliation. Dinkelman warns that politicization of the Foreign Service threatens U.S. national security and emphasizes the need for congressional oversight. His commitment to advocating for diplomatic integrity shines through, urging the public to support a resilient foreign service.
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AFSA Filled A Data Vacuum
- The federal government canceled its annual employee workplace survey, so AFSA filled the gap with its own study.
- Over 2,000 members responded, revealing much deeper workforce problems than leadership acknowledged.
Survey Shows Severe Operational Harm
- Survey results show widespread operational harm: 86% said job ability was inhibited and 98% said morale suffered.
- These figures imply systemic damage to the Foreign Service's capacity to serve U.S. national interests.
Truth-Telling Is Core Diplomatic Value
- Diplomats' unique value lies in uncensored, ground-level truth-telling to elected leaders.
- Fear of retaliation silences that input, shifting focus from service to self-preservation.