Phyllis Fong, a veteran inspector general at the USDA, was terminated by the White House amidst a backdrop of urgent agricultural threats such as bird flu. Her firing sparked criticism regarding adherence to legal protocols, as the independent Council of the Inspectors General indicated the terminations do not comply with statutory requirements. The administration defends the actions as necessary for appointing qualified individuals to protect democracy. However, the situation raises concerns about transparency and the control of information at a time when public health issues are at stake.
Phyllis Fong, a 22-year veteran, intended to stay after her termination, citing that the White House did not follow proper protocols.
The USDA is now without an inspector general as the White House defends the firing, claiming to replace rogue bureaucrats.
The inspector general's office has been active in investigating several crucial issues, including animal welfare and public health risks.
Critics suggest that the administration seeks to control public information related to ongoing issues like Covid and bird flu.
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