
Ms.‘ Profiles in Courage honors the extraordinary women and men who have transformed American institutions through principled public service. At a time when trust in government is fragile, these stories offer a powerful reminder of what ethical leadership looks like—from those who litigate for civil rights and resign on principle, to those who break military barriers and defend democracy on the front lines.
On Jan. 24, 2025, President Donald Trump dismissed inspectors general (IGs) from 17 key federal agencies in an unprecedented move that has raised serious questions about government accountability. These IGs serve as independent watchdogs tasked with overseeing federal operations, ensuring transparency, and protecting taxpayer dollars from fraud, waste and mismanagement. Critics argue that the IGs’ removal weakens a critical safeguard against waste, fraud and abuse.
Eight of the dismissed IGs have filed a lawsuit in federal court in Washington, D.C., arguing that their terminations were unlawful.