***Controversy Surrounds Appointment of Junior Official in Key State Department Role***
In a surprising move, a junior foreign service officer has been selected to lead the State Department’s personnel office, sparking backlash from current and former U.S. diplomats and their union. The decision to appoint Lew Olowski, a relatively new addition to the foreign service, to oversee the Bureau of Global Talent has raised concerns among various diplomatic organizations.
The American Foreign Service Association and the American Academy of Diplomacy, along with many current foreign service officers, have expressed dismay over the appointment. They argue that the role traditionally requires a senior or retired career diplomat, and view Olowski’s selection as a departure from this standard. Additionally, Olowski’s past writings, which have been critical of immigration and supportive of the Trump administration, have drawn scrutiny from his colleagues.
Critics fear that the appointment signals a lack of regard for experience and professional advancement within the State Department. While officials defend the decision, stating that Olowski is a career officer with four years of service, detractors question his qualifications for the position. The American Academy of Diplomacy has labeled Olowski as “unqualified” and criticized the bypassing of Senate confirmation for the role.
Despite assurances from the State Department that Olowski’s appointment does not foreshadow mass layoffs and is only temporary, concerns persist among diplomatic circles. The controversy underscores broader tensions within the diplomatic community over the handling of key leadership positions within the department.
