Security Escorts USDA Official Out After She Rejects Being Fired By Trump

A federal employee who refused to accept her termination was removed from her office by security after attempting to stay in her position. Phyllis Fong, a longtime Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), continued reporting to work after being fired last Friday by President Donald Trump.

Fong was among 17 inspectors general dismissed as part of a broader shake-up of federal agencies. Despite the clear directive, she insisted that the termination was not legally binding and claimed that the administration had failed to follow federal procedures. The White House dismissed these arguments, stating that Trump had every right to remove executive branch employees.

By Monday, when Fong still had not left her post, security was called in to escort her from the building. Though the USDA later claimed she left voluntarily, reports indicate that she initially resisted and had to be removed.

The Trump administration defended the firings, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reaffirming that the president’s decision was final. The White House also indicated that additional dismissals may follow as part of ongoing efforts to reshape federal agencies.

Fong, who had held her position for 22 years, oversaw investigations into USDA programs, food safety regulations, and government spending. She had previously served as the first chairperson of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency.