The resignation of Office of Government Ethics Director Walter Shaub is another troubling sign for the ethically-challenged Trump White House. Ethics scandals swirled around Donald Trump before he was even sworn in, but Shaub joins a growing list of government officials who tried the hold the Administration accountable who are now working in the private sector. Shaub may not have been fired like James Comey and Sally Yates, but his departure, after a number of high-profile confrontations with the White House, is part of a disturbing pattern from an Administration that views ethics compliance and the public’s right to know what is happening within government, as unnecessary hindrances.  

Shaub’s replacement must be a recognized leader with an independent voice for open, transparent, ethical, and honest government who is capable of standing up to the Trump Administration when its actions make that necessary.