Trump, Freed from Impeachment, Orders Identification of 'Anti-Trump Faction' Within Administration

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] As U.S. President Donald Trump escapes the impeachment phase, it is reported that he has begun a purge of opposition factions within the administration. It is analyzed that his goal is to firmly control the administration ahead of the re-election and establish a loyal regime.

According to The Washington Post (WP) on the 22nd (local time), President Trump instructed the White House to identify and remove officials across all government departments who do not show sufficient loyalty. WP reported that a new phase has begun involving a comprehensive purge of opposition factions ahead of the presidential election. Trump reportedly ordered John McEntee, White House Personnel Director, to find and "remove" administration officials who do not align with him.

Earlier, the online media Axios cited three sources familiar with the meeting, reporting that on the 20th, McEntee convened a meeting with officials from various departments and agencies, requesting them to identify political appointees perceived as anti-Trump across the previous administration. During the meeting, McEntee reportedly indicated that those labeled as anti-Trump would no longer be promoted and hinted at demotions or transfers.

WP reported that McEntee is preparing to present the results of the purge to President Trump soon. Unlike his predecessor who reported to Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, McEntee is known to report directly to President Trump. In fact, John Rood, former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, who fell out of favor after giving testimony unfavorable to the Trump administration in Congress related to the 'Ukraine scandal,' resigned on the 19th, revealing pressure from President Trump to step down. Additionally, Victoria Coates, Deputy National Security Advisor at the White House, suspected of anonymously contributing critical newspaper articles and publications about President Trump, was transferred to the Department of Energy.