Michael R. Bloomberg

Trump’s Firing of Watchdogs Must Be Checked

Congress should investigate the removal of inspectors general, and that means Republicans as well as Democrats.

Oversight required.

Photographer: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

When Donald Trump’s supporters in 2016 imagined him bringing his television catchphrase — “You’re fired!” — to Washington, they probably didn’t think he meant ethics officers and government watchdogs charged with rooting out illegal activity. The president’s removal of such officials has become so brazen that even a few of his allies in Congress are expressing concern.

Expressing concern isn’t good enough. Senate Republicans should join with House Democrats in holding hearings that probe why the president fired four inspectors general over the past two months — without, as a 2008 law requires, giving Congress 30 days’ notice and providing a written explanation.