President Donald Trump fired 17 independent inspectors general across various federal agencies late Friday, continuing his efforts to reshape the government.

The dismissals affected agencies like the Defense, State, and Energy Departments, among others.

The firings have sparked criticism, with some calling it a “widespread massacre” and claiming that the replacements will be loyalists.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley raised concerns that the firings may violate federal law, as Trump did not provide the required 30-day notice to Congress.

Inspectors general are tasked with investigating government waste and abuse and operate independently.

Critics, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, condemned the move as an attempt to undermine checks on presidential power, Fox News has reported.

Trump’s firings mirror previous actions from his first term, including dismissals tied to his impeachment proceedings.

Written by B.C. Begley