by John Cylc

August 18, 2024

In recent years, the landscape of American politics has been marked by intense scrutiny and controversy, particularly surrounding the high-profile, former President Donald Trump. Throughout these turbulent times, I have stood by the rank-and-file members of various government agencies, particularly the FBI, CIA, and DOJ, in the face of politically motivated attacks and investigations aimed at tarnishing Trump’s reputation. My belief, shared by many conservative commentators, was that these attacks were orchestrated by a small, elite faction at the top of these agencies, rather than the actions of lower-ranking personnel.

However, my perspective has shifted significantly following the Secret Service’s failure to prevent the assassination attempt on the 45th President. This incident illuminated a critical realization: while the strategic planning and directives for protective details may come from higher-level management, it is the frontline employees—those on the ground—who are responsible for initiating and executing these plans. These individuals, possessing considerable experience and expertise, had the capacity to recognize the flaws and gaps in the security coverage, yet they proceeded with its implementation. This realization prompted me to reevaluate my views.

Reflecting back on my own experience in the U.S. Army, I recall that all soldiers were actively encouraged to voice concerns when flaws in a plan were identified. We were also taught to disregard unlawful orders and to uphold our oath to the U.S. Constitution, rather than to the individuals issuing the orders. This commitment to constitutional integrity and ethical behavior has shaped my perspective on the role and duty of these federal employees today.

It is imperative to recognize that if one observes wrongdoing within a government agency, there is an obligation to challenge or expose it. Federal employees have several ways to address such issues. Internally, there are established procedures such as contacting the Inspector General. An individual could also become a whistleblower and seek congressional protections. For those considering non-sanctioned methods, the often-used Democrat option is to disclose information to the media through a “leak.” It is important to use select, non-biased reporting outlets. Most Americans understand that the mainstream media exhibit bias in their coverage. Because of that, accusations against conservative figures may be sensationalized immediately without any additional substantiated evidence, while allegations against Democrats may receive more rigorous scrutiny before publication, be challenged by the on-air talking heads or be outright ignored.

The core of this argument is a call to action for the loyal Americans working within federal agencies who witness misconduct but choose to remain silent. It is essential to acknowledge that, ideologically, you may find yourself in the minority within your agency. However, look at it through the window of our Country’s history. The founding fathers of this nation, along with the men who served alongside or beneath their command, were also in the minority against an overwhelming foe. Their courage to stand up against the prevailing injustices, systemic corruption and outright tyranny, laid the foundation for the principles we uphold today.

Remaining silent in the face of corruption and bias may inadvertently enable and even encourage further unethical behavior by agency leadership. By choosing to speak up, you uphold the integrity of your agency and contribute to the preservation of public trust in government institutions. As federal employees, you are in a unique position to influence the culture and operations within your agency. It is not just your individual responsibility but a patriotic duty to challenge and address corruption or abuse of office.

To fail to act against corruption and bias is, at best, a disservice to the principles of justice and democracy; at worst, it can be seen as a betrayal of the very ideals upon which our nation was built. True commitment to public service requires courage, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to upholding the highest ethical standards. It is time for those who hold these values to rise above the challenges and contribute to a government that is more effective and principled. The future welfare, and possibly survival, of our country as we know it, demands your ethics and loyalty.

Anything less is a betrayal.