**Concerns Grow Over Potential Exodus of Inspectors General Amid Trump Return**

In recent developments that have raised alarms in Washington, two high-profile investigators from U.S. intelligence agencies have resigned, stirring fears of a broader departure or purge of government watchdogs. The departures come as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to reenter office, sparking concerns that he may replace these positions with loyal appointees, effectively altering oversight landscapes across federal agencies.

Robin Ashton, CIA Inspector General, and Thomas Monheim, Inspector General for the Intelligence Community, have both announced their intentions to leave their posts in the coming weeks. While they did not explicitly link their departures to Trump's return, the timing has worried longtime advocates for inspectors general (IGs). Former Justice Department Inspector General Michael Bromwich reflected a broader sentiment, lamenting that such key officials should remain steadfast during challenging times rather than step down.

During his first term, Trump often found himself at odds with IGs, and his team even contemplated asking for their mass resignations, a move that was eventually dropped. As he prepares for a second term, some of Trump's allies are pushing for a wholesale replacement of these watchdogs, arguing that fresh oversight could enhance their function and political management. However, this suggestion has met opposition from conservative corners that fear it would undermine the IG offices' credibility and independence, as highlighted by Jason Foster, founder of Empower Oversight.

There's particularly high anxiety around the possible removal of Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz, whose past reports have both aided and agitated Trump. Critics argue that Horowitz's cautious conclusions regarding political bias in Trump-related investigations have irked the President-elect, potentially positioning him as a high-profile target for ousting.

Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, a long-time defender of inspectors general, could play a critical role in any efforts by Trump to overhaul these positions. Grassley has historically fought to ensure IG independence and might challenge any broad attempts to purge these officials. Notably, Grassley has previously suggested that IGs could support Trump's goal of increased government accountability, urging the President to view them as allies rather than adversaries.

As the incoming administration considers its moves, the ripple effects of altering such oversight positions could reach across numerous federal entities, effectively shaping the integrity and function of governmental checks and balances.