Senior DOJ Official Quits, Calls Workplace ‘Hostile and Toxic’

DOJ Spokesperson Joshua Stueve Resigns, Citing Workplace Concerns

Joshua Stueve, a senior spokesperson for the Department of Justice (DOJ), has officially resigned, citing a "toxic work environment" in his letter to department leadership. Stueve, a longtime DOJ official who has served under both Democratic and Republican administrations, expressed his concerns about the agency’s deteriorating work culture under the Trump administration.

“Simply put, I cannot continue to serve in such a hostile and toxic work environment, one where leadership at the highest levels makes clear we are not welcomed or valued, much less trusted to do our jobs,” Stueve wrote in his resignation letter, according to Newsweek. ajay_suresh / Wikimedia

Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Initiatives Lead to DOJ Staff Departures

Stueve’s departure is the latest in a wave of resignations and firings at the DOJ following the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The department, spearheaded by tech billionaire Elon Musk, was launched with a mandate to reduce government spending and streamline federal agencies. Since gaining unprecedented access to internal federal systems on January 20, DOGE has moved aggressively to dismantle sections of the government, prompting several career officials to leave their posts.

Musk has expressed criticism of federal employees, reportedly making pointed remarks during a Cabinet meeting earlier this week. His comments, along with DOGE’s policies, have contributed to a tense atmosphere across multiple federal agencies. Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia

Stueve Clarifies Resignation Was Not Politically Motivated

In his resignation letter, Stueve argued that his decision was not politically motivated. “To be clear, the outcome of the most recent general election did not influence my decision. In fact, it has been an honor to serve this department under multiple administrations led by both Republicans and Democrats, each of whom have previously treated career staff with respect and dignity,” he wrote. chayka1270 / Pixabay

Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Appointment Precedes DOJ Reshuffle

The resignation follows the appointment of Attorney General Pam Bondi earlier this month. Since her swearing-in, the DOJ has seen a significant shake-up, with multiple resignations and terminations of top career officials. Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia

Stueve Reflects on DOJ Culture

Stueve described the situation as “heartbreaking,” expressing his belief that “basic decency” had disappeared from the department. Despite his decision to leave, he expressed gratitude toward his former colleagues, calling them “true patriots.” Coolcaesar / Wikimedia