Trump Removes U.S. Archivist Colleen Shogan Following Classified Documents Controversy
President Donald Trump has officially fired U.S. Archivist Colleen Shogan, ending months of speculation about her future at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). The move comes after Trump repeatedly criticized the agency’s role in the investigation that led to his prosecution over classified documents stored at Mar-a-Lago.
Trump’s Long-Running Dispute with the National Archives
Trump’s tensions with the National Archives began in 2021 when the agency attempted to retrieve presidential records he had taken after leaving office. The Justice Department later pursued criminal charges against Trump, accusing him of mishandling classified documents. Although a judge dismissed the case in 2024, Trump has continued to target NARA, alleging that its leadership was involved in politically motivated efforts against him.
Shogan, who was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2023, was not in charge when the dispute over the records began. However, Trump and his allies have viewed her as part of the same system they believe worked against him.
Shogan’s Sudden Dismissal Raises Concerns
Sergio Gor, director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, announced the decision on social media, stating:
“At the direction of @realDonaldTrump the Archivist of the United States has been dismissed tonight. We thank Colleen Shogan for her service.”
The announcement followed days of uncertainty after an incorrect report suggested that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been named as Shogan’s replacement. However, as of now, no successor has been named. If Trump does not appoint a new archivist immediately, Deputy Archivist Jay Bosanko will take over the position on an acting basis.
Criticism Over Trump’s Decision
Trump’s decision to fire Shogan has sparked backlash, particularly from former National Archives officials. Jason R. Baron, a former director of litigation at NARA, criticized the firing, stating:
“No good reason exists for firing Dr. Shogan, as she has faithfully carried out her duties in a nonpartisan fashion.”
Baron also emphasized that NARA is an independent agency, arguing that Trump’s belief that the Archives acted politically is unfounded. Federal law requires the president to provide Congress with a formal explanation for removing the archivist, but it remains unclear whether Trump has done so.
Implications for Federal Recordkeeping
The National Archives plays a crucial role in preserving federal records, investigating lost or improperly handled documents, and ensuring public access to presidential records. Shogan’s removal could impact ongoing and future document-related disputes, especially as Trump’s presidency continues to attract scrutiny over record-keeping practices.
Trump has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the Archives’ handling of classified documents, frequently referring to the agency’s actions as a “sham referral” to the Justice Department. His decision to remove Shogan signals that he plans to reshape the agency’s leadership, potentially with someone more aligned with his views on presidential record-keeping.
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