State Department Allegedly Quizzed Those Up for Promotion If They Voted for Trump
(AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
Employees at the State Department seeking promotions have been grilled on who they voted for in the last three presidential elections — with top brass making it known only those who went for President Donald Trump would be considered.
The report from The Washington Sun claimed those looking to move up the ranks at the department were also told that more than their voting history would be scrutinized.
The outlet cited multiple sources in its Thursday report:
Top officials in the State Department made clear that only candidates who voted for President Donald Trump would be eligible for the mid-to-upper level foreign service roles. They also told candidates that their campaign donation history would be examined and any donation to Democrats would be disqualifying.
The Washington Sun spoke to six current and former State Department officials familiar with the line of questioning around candidates’ voting histories. Three of the sources had spoken directly with individuals who had been asked the questions.
Government personnel decisions are not supposed to be made based on political affiliation, as per federal law, the outlet noted.
The State Department responded to The Sun in a statement that focused on “fidelity” without addressing the claims.
“Fidelity means upholding the Constitution and the law and executing policy with loyalty to the American people and their interests.
“It emphasizes the critical importance of service, integrity, and policy alignment across the Foreign Service. It is not about partisan behavior but rather about executing the president’s vision for foreign policy,” the spokesperson told The Sun.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has slammed the department as “bloated” and last year initiated layoffs that saw 1,300 employees exit.
Under Rubio leadership, the State Department has also closed or reorganized more than 300 bureaus and offices.
The department vehemently rejected the report when reached for comment by Mediaite.
“We reject this absurd premise that individuals are being asked about their political affiliations, and even more so for promotions. As it has been expressed repeatedly, this Administration will prioritize merit rather than giving out leadership positions based on the number of years individuals have been at the Department,” the department said in a statement.
The State Department then went after those who spoke to the press.
“Secretary Rubio values candid insights from patriotic Americans who have chosen to serve their country. What we will not tolerate is people using their positions to actively undermine the duly elected President’s objectives,” spokesman Tommy Pigott said.
“Those bureaucrats who are complaining to the press prove the point that they shouldn’t have, and can’t be, trusted with sensitive information.”
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