State Dept Asked Diplomats If They Voted for Trump: Shaheen, Walkinshaw React
On Oct. 22, 2026, The Washington Sun reported that the State Department had asked some Foreign Service officers up for promotion whom they voted for in the 2016, 2020 and 2024 presidential elections. Citing six current and former department officials, three of whom had spoken directly with people who were questioned, the outlet reported that top officials had made clear only candidates who voted for President Trump would be eligible for mid- and upper-level Foreign Service roles, and that campaign donations to Democrats would be disqualifying. Federal law bars personnel decisions for career staff on the basis of political affiliation. A department spokesperson first declined to address the voting questions, saying the department values "fidelity," which it described as "not about partisan behavior but rather about executing the president's vision for foreign policy." Hours later the spokesperson said the department rejected the "absurd premise" that people are being asked about their political affiliations, "and even more so for promotions." The department added a "fidelity" section to Foreign Service performance reviews in July 2025 and has shed nearly a quarter of its workforce. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the committee was working with the House to investigate.
“[Statement to The Washington Sun, as the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee:] The Committee has been following allegations that the Trump Administration is making political affiliation a factor [in Foreign Service personnel decisions]. … These are critical national security positions and individuals should be chosen for their experience and ability, not their political loyalty. We are working with the House and other relevant committees to thoroughly investigate all such claims.”