Josh Durso
January 26, 2025
New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang has denounced the abrupt overnight dismissal of at least 17 federal Inspectors General by the Trump administration, warning that the action threatens the foundations of American democracy. Lang’s statement follows reports that the firings targeted IGs in multiple federal agencies, including State, Defense, Agriculture, and Housing and Urban Development.
Lang emphasized the essential role of IGs in maintaining government transparency, accountability, and integrity, noting that their independence is crucial to guarding against corruption. “The dismissal of at least 17 federal Inspectors General without notice to Congress undermines the independence of these essential watchdogs and threatens the very fabric of American democracy,” Lang said. “Without their independence, our government risks spiraling into unchecked power and corruption.”
Lang also cited the fiscal impact of federal IGs, highlighting that their oversight saved $93.1 billion in 2023 alone—a $26 return on every taxpayer dollar spent. She recently authored an op-ed in City & State underscoring the growing threats to IG independence and called for bipartisan action to protect these positions from political interference.
The Inspector General expressed concern over the precedent set by partisan dismissals, urging elected officials and citizens to recognize the democratic necessity of safeguarding IG independence. “The history of bipartisan support for IG independence must prevail over the dangerous precedent of partisanship that undermines their work,” Lang said. “We cannot allow political interference to undermine the transparency and accountability that the American people deserve.”
Lang’s comments highlight the urgency of the issue as lawmakers and advocates nationwide debate measures to ensure the autonomy and effectiveness of Inspectors General in both state and federal government.
