Trump’s transition team has reportedly asked three senior career diplomats to step down from their roles, according to sources. The diplomats in question, Dereck Hogan, Marcia Bernicat, and Alaina Teplitz, oversee the State Department’s workforce and internal coordination. This move suggests a potential desire by the Trump team to bring about significant changes within the department.
A U.S. official familiar with the matter expressed concerns about the implications of this request, stating, 'There's a little bit of a concern that this might be setting the stage for something worse.'
All three diplomats have served under both Democratic and Republican administrations, distinguishing them from political appointees who typically resign when a new president takes office.
Throughout his tenure, Trump has been critical of the 'deep state,' and this action may be viewed as part of his broader efforts to reshape the government at a bureaucratic level.
In response to inquiries, Trump’s team emphasized the importance of seeking officials who align with the President's vision and goals for the nation.
These developments unfold against a backdrop of global turmoil, with conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, as well as Israel and Hamas, ongoing.
While opinions on Trump’s foreign policy remain divided, some view recent shifts on the world stage as early indicators of success.
One significant foreign policy achievement of Trump’s administration was the Abraham Accords, which facilitated peace in the Middle East. Efforts to end the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas have shown progress, with the involvement of Trump’s incoming Middle East special envoy, Steve Witkoff, being recognized by the Biden administration.
John Kirby, a national security communications adviser, acknowledged the importance of including the Trump team in ongoing diplomatic efforts, noting that they would bear responsibility for the outcomes of these initiatives.
