Inspectors general are vital to ensuring accountability and integrity across government — uncovering waste, fraud, and abuse while keeping the public’s trust.
In a new op-ed in The Hill, Levin Center Director Jim Townsend urges Congress to protect the independence of inspectors general and reject proposals that would weaken these essential watchdogs.
Keep inspectors general independent and on the job
by Jim Townsend, The Hill, November 5, 2025
Since 1978, when the Inspector General Act was passed, Congress and the American people have benefited from the independent and professional work of the offices created by this law. Recognizing the cost savings, integrity, and accountability that inspectors general bring to the federal government, Congress has since dramatically increased the number of federal agencies that have inspectors general performing their watchdog function.
Now, following President Trump’s firing of more than a dozen inspectors general and his administration’s efforts to defund and muzzle them across the government, Congress needs to fight harder than it has so far to defend this independent voice that brings to light facts that Congress and the American people need to know.