Top DOJ Spokesperson Resigns Amid Hostile Work Environment Claims

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Joshua Stueve, a senior spokesperson for the Department of Justice, submitted his resignation on Thursday, citing a “hostile and toxic work environment.” Stueve, who has worked at the DOJ since 2010, said that his final day will be tomorrow, although he noted his resignation would be effective until September 30, 2025.

In a resignation letter obtained by NBC News, Stueve emphasized that his decision was not influenced by the upcoming 2024 presidential election. He claimed, “It is heartbreaking to see that basic decency come to an end.” He expressed regret over the deterioration of workplace culture at the DOJ, stating, “Simply put, I cannot continue to serve in such a hostile and toxic work environment, one where leadership at the highest levels makes clear we are not welcome or valued, much less trusted to do our jobs.”

Stueve’s departure adds to a growing list of resignations from federal agencies amid intense scrutiny and budget cuts initiated by the Trump administration under the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. Reports indicate that many in the DOJ and other federal agencies have left due to concerns over leadership instability and a lack of support for career staff.

For instance, Stueve’s resignation follows similar trends seen in various departments. Notably, just recently, officials from the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Treasury have also resigned over pressures related to staffing cuts and the need to justify their positions amidst impending budget constraints.

The current environment at the DOJ reflects escalating tensions within the federal government, particularly following President Trump’s signing of regulations mandating agency heads to work directly with DOGE personnel on spending inquiries. This has prompted outcry from federal unions and workforce advocacy groups.

In his letter, Stueve reflected on the deterioration of morale within the department, stating: “It has been an honor to serve this department under multiple administrations led by both Republicans and Democrats, each of whom have previously treated career staff with respect and dignity.” He voiced concern that current leadership approaches hinder the DOJ’s ability to effectively function.

Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene‘s comments earlier this week, calling federal jobs “not real jobs” that do not produce revenue, further emphasize the growing divide in perceptions of federal employment. Greene stated, “Those jobs are paid for by the American tax people, who work real jobs, earn real income, pay federal taxes, and then pay these federal employees.”

As the reshaping of the federal landscape continues under intense scrutiny, Stueve’s resignation heralds ongoing challenges facing the DOJ and similar agencies. With increasing public backlash against the spending approaches of the Trump administration, many speculate that Stueve may not be the last resigning official as concerns mount about the future of federal operations.

Update: As of February 27, 2025, this story has been updated with additional information.