AFGE and allied organizations representing hundreds of thousands of federal workers are speaking out against President Trump's nominee for Special Counsel, Paul Ingrassia, warning his confirmation would be a direct threat to whistleblower protections and merit-based employment.
Ingrassia, just barely 30 years old with minimal legal experience, has a troubling record of attacking federal employees. He has publicly referred to career civil servants as "parasites" and "bugmen," raising serious concerns about his ability to impartially uphold the rights and protections of federal workers.
The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is critical in defending whistleblowers and ensuring federal employees are protected from political retaliation. Ingrassia's nomination, critics argue, could dangerously politicize this independent office.
“Our members deserve an OSC led by someone who respects and understands the critical role federal employees play in serving and protecting the American public,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley.
Federal workers are already under significant pressure following recent administration attacks on union rights and workplace protections. AFGE leaders emphasize that a compromised OSC would make the situation worse, further undermining morale and public trust in government services.
As the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee prepares to review Ingrassia's nomination, AFGE is mobilizing members nationwide, urging them to contact their senators and demand a nominee who will uphold the integrity of the civil service. Senate HSGAC Ranking Member Gary Peters called him “bigoted” and called for his withdrawal.
"Federal employees who blow the whistle on waste, fraud, and abuse put their careers on the line to expose corruption," Kelley continued. "They deserve protection, not persecution. The Senate must reject Ingrassia and demand a nominee committed to fairness, accountability, and respect for public servants.”
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