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Trump’s Dismissal of Government Watchdogs Violated Law, Judge Finds

By  |  September 25, 2025

A federal judge has determined that former President Donald Trump violated federal law when dismissing multiple inspectors general, but she declined to reinstate them despite acknowledging the illegality of the firings.

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    U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes ruled on Wednesday that Trump failed to comply with the Inspector General Act, a post-Watergate statute requiring presidents to give Congress 30 days’ notice and a written justification before removing agency watchdogs. According to Reuters, Reyes found that Trump’s actions clearly breached the law, writing in her opinion that “President Trump violated the IGA. That much is obvious.”

    The case was brought by eight inspectors general who were among at least 17 watchdogs Trump dismissed after beginning his second term. These officials had overseen investigations into waste, fraud, and misconduct at agencies including the Departments of Defense, State, Education, Agriculture, and Health and Human Services. Reyes recognized the plaintiffs’ decades of service, noting in her 20-page opinion that they had provided “exceptional service” across administrations. Per Reuters, she added, “They deserved better from their government. They still do.”

    Read more: Federal Court to Hear Case on Trump’s Firing of FTC Democrats

    Although Reyes acknowledged the inspectors general presented “compelling arguments” for reinstatement, she ruled that they had not shown the kind of irreparable harm needed for the court to order their return. The judge explained that even if reinstated, Trump could lawfully dismiss them again by following the proper procedure of providing notice and rationale to Congress.

    The inspectors general are also seeking back pay as part of their lawsuit. Reyes placed the case on hold while awaiting a Supreme Court decision related to Trump’s removal of a Federal Trade Commission leader, which could influence the outcome of the watchdogs’ claims.

    In her ruling, Reyes began by recalling the Watergate scandal that led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon and spurred the creation of the Inspector General Act in 1978. According to Reuters, she emphasized the role Congress envisioned for inspectors general: independent oversight designed to guard against corruption and abuse of power.

    Source: Reuters