Joshua Stueve, a senior communications advisor and top spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), has resigned, citing a “toxic work environment” and concerns over leadership changes within the department. His resignation follows a series of high-profile departures amid reported tensions in the DOJ.
Resignation Details
A Strongly Worded Letter
In his resignation letter, Stueve criticized the hostile atmosphere within the DOJ, stating that career staff members were made to feel "unwelcomed and undervalued."
"I can no longer work in an environment where career public servants are disregarded and disrespected," he wrote.
He clarified that his resignation was not politically motivated but rather driven by the deteriorating conditions within the department.
Serving Under Multiple Administrations
Stueve emphasized that he had worked under both Republican and Democratic administrations and had previously found respect and dignity in his role. However, he noted a drastic shift in the workplace environment in recent months, leading to his decision to step down.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service
Over a Decade at the DOJ
Stueve first joined the Department of Justice in 2010 and served as a key figure in public affairs and media relations. His role became especially significant during major DOJ investigations and policy shifts.
Senior Communications Advisor
Since January 2021, he had been the DOJ’s senior communications advisor, handling press relations, crisis communications, and official DOJ messaging. His experience made him one of the most recognizable voices in the department.
Context of the Resignation
DOJ Facing Internal Upheaval
Stueve’s departure is part of a broader trend of resignations and dismissals at the DOJ following a leadership overhaul. Since Attorney General Pam Bondi’s appointment earlier this month, several top officials have either resigned or been removed.
Restructuring and Federal Employee Concerns
The Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been reviewing federal agencies in an effort to cut costs and streamline operations. However, critics argue that these changes have led to low morale and an exodus of experienced personnel.
What This Means for the DOJ
A Shake-Up in Leadership
With Stueve’s resignation and several other departures, the DOJ is undergoing significant changes in its communication strategies and leadership structure. This could impact public transparency, press relations, and DOJ policies moving forward.
Concerns Over Career Staff Treatment
Government watchdogs and legal experts have raised concerns about how career staff members are treated amid the DOJ’s leadership shake-up. There are growing fears that partisan decision-making and internal conflicts could affect the department’s effectiveness and independence.