The NPR Politics Podcast Democrats Launch Probe Into Trump's Firing Of State Department Inspector General
May 18, 2020
Congressional Democrats are diving into President Trump's firing of State Department inspector general Steve Linick, raising questions of accountability in government. The discussion explores how this dismissal ties to inquiries involving Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Meanwhile, former President Obama highlights the unfair challenges faced by the 2020 graduating class due to the pandemic. Tensions also rise between Obama and Trump as their contrasting leadership styles play out, particularly affecting Trump's outreach to African American voters.
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Trump vs. Watchdogs
- President Trump repeatedly removes inspectors general he deems disloyal.
- These independent investigators expose government failures, aiming for accountability.
Linick's Removal
- Steve Linick, the State Department Inspector General, is being removed by Trump.
- This follows a pattern, and Democrats investigate if Linick's Pompeo probe triggered it.
Grassley's Concern
- Senator Chuck Grassley questioned the vagueness of Trump's dismissal letter for Linick.
- The letter cited lost confidence but lacked specific reasons, raising concerns.