Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken is facing congressional scrutiny over reports that his State Department hosted “therapy sessions” for employees who did not support President-elect Donald Trump after his victory in early November.
As reported by Fox News, Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) sent a letter to Blinken last week demanding answers over the politically-biased therapy sessions.
“I am concerned that the Department is catering to federal employees who are personally devastated by the normal functioning of American democracy through the provision of government-funded mental health counseling because Kamala Harris was not elected President of the United States,” said Issa’s letter.
In addition to the therapy sessions, an internal State Department email advertised an “insightful webinar where we delve into effective stress management techniques to help you navigate these challenging times.”
“Change is a constant in our lives, but it can often bring about stress and uncertainty,” the email read. “Join us for an insightful webinar where we delve into effective stress management techniques to help you navigate these challenging times. This session will provide tips and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining your well being.”
Issa referred to these sessions as “disturbing,” noting that “nonpartisan government officials” should not be having a “personal meltdown over the result of a free and fair election.”
“The mere fact that the Department is hosting these sessions raises significant questions about the willingness of its personnel to implement the lawful policy priorities that the American people elected President Trump to pursue and implement,” Issa’s letter continued. “The Trump Administration has a mandate for wholesale change in the foreign policy arena, and if foreign service officers cannot follow through on the American people’s preferences, they should resign and seek a political appointment in the next Democrat administration.”
President-elect Trump has nominated Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) to be his next Secretary of State.