In a late-night move that has sparked controversy, President Donald Trump fired 17 inspectors general—internal watchdogs tasked with monitoring federal agencies. The decision, made on Friday, is part of a broader effort to reshape the government and prioritize loyalty to the president, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The shake-up didn’t touch Michael E. Horowitz, the inspector general for the Justice Department, but several other major agencies saw their watchdogs removed. This isn’t the first time Trump has targeted these roles; back in 2020, he dismissed five inspectors general, including Michael Atkinson, who handled the whistle-blower complaint tied to Trump’s first impeachment.

Democrats have criticized the move, accusing the president of undermining independent oversight. They argue that these watchdogs play a crucial role in holding federal agencies accountable and ensuring transparency.

The firings come after a week of significant changes within the federal bureaucracy, with Trump focusing on reshaping the government to align with his priorities. The White House has yet to comment on the decision, but it’s clear this move is part of a larger pattern of consolidating control.

This latest development raises questions about the future of oversight in federal agencies and whether these roles can remain independent under the current administration. For now, the impact of these dismissals remains to be seen, but it’s a story that’s sure to keep unfolding.