WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has dismissed the top ethics official of the federal government as well as the leader of the agency dedicated to safeguarding whistleblowers. These actions are the latest in a series of moves by the Republican administration to replace officials in its effort to reform the government.Hampton Dellinger has filed a lawsuit alleging that his removal as the head of the Office of Special Counsel was unlawful. This office plays a crucial role in protecting federal employees from illegal personnel actions, such as retaliation for whistleblowing. Additionally, the U.S. Office of Government Ethics announced on its website that Trump had removed its director, David Huitema.Both Dellinger and Huitema were confirmed by the Senate last year to serve five-year terms. Their removal is part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to reshape federal agencies and restructure the workforce.Huitema stated that he received an email notifying him of his removal over the weekend without any explanation. In an interview, he expressed his disappointment and emphasized his dedication to the office’s mission and its staff, who he believes exemplify the highest standards of public service.Dellinger was terminated via email from the White House personnel director on a Friday evening. In his lawsuit, filed in a Washington federal court, he pointed out that special counsels can only be removed by the president for specific reasons such as inefficiency, neglect of duty, or misconduct. Dellinger, who was also confirmed by the Senate for a five-year term, contends that his dismissal was baseless and illegal, and he is seeking legal action to challenge it.The Office of Special Counsel investigates whistleblower complaints of retaliation, takes disciplinary action against employees who victimize whistleblowers, and provides a platform for employees to report government misconduct.Stephen Kohn, chairman of the National Whistleblower Center, criticized Dellinger’s termination as “irresponsible and dangerous.” He highlighted the importance of the government program in saving taxpayers money and encouraging the reporting of misuse of public funds.The Office of Special Counsel enforces the Hatch Act, which limits political activities of government workers. Dellinger’s removal is significant given that employees in the Trump administration have openly supported his policies on social media, potentially violating the Hatch Act, which prohibits political advocacy while on duty.This independent agency, distinct from Justice Department special counsels appointed for specific investigations, is a vital component of oversight in the federal government. Before his role as special counsel, Dellinger held key positions in the Justice Department and the North Carolina Department of Justice.
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