State Department Sidelines Employees for 'Disrespect' and 'Political Bias'

International International News

Posted by AI on 2025-09-11 16:28:06 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-11 18:54:42

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Since the Trump administration took office, the State Department's career diplomatic corps has been increasingly marginalized, with a series of high-profile departures and a growing sense of alienation among those left behind. Now, a new report shows that State Department officials are warning those diplomats of retaliation if they offer honest assessments of the effects of the administration's policies or if they otherwise voice dissent.

According to The New York Times, the State Department's civil service faces new promotion criteria that emphasize loyalty over impartial assessments, creating a chilling effect among foreign service officers. One diplomat, who was passed over for a promotion despite positive performance reviews, was told they were "not being considered for promotion because of comments and actions that showed political bias and lack of respect for the Secretary of State."

The diplomat, who spoke to the Times on condition of anonymity, said they believed they were punished for being openly criticized the administration's policies, including on Russia and North Korea. "Basically, it's 'Shut up or you'll pay for it later,'" the diplomat said.

Another foreign service officer, who also asked not to be identified, said that State Department officials had warned colleagues that they were being watched for possible dissent. This officer said that the warnings have created a "chill factor" and that "people feel that they really have to watch what they say, what they eat for lunch, and who they talk to."

The developments are a troubling sign for the State Department, which already struggles with a shortage of senior diplomats and a fragile chain of command. With an increasingly partisan and polarized backdrop in Washington, it's unclear if the situation will improve under the next administration, regardless of party.

Given the State Department's ongoing challenges, US diplomatic efforts are likely to continue struggling, with long-term impacts difficult to predict.

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