Report: 98% of U.S. Diplomats Experience a Sharp Decrease in Morale Under Trump

According to a recent study, nearly all U.S. diplomats believe that workplace morale has significantly dropped since President Donald Trump assumed office. The findings, shared with The New York Times by the American Foreign Service Association, reveal that an overwhelming 98% of professional diplomats feel morale has deteriorated under the current administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The upcoming report, based on responses from over 2,000 diplomats, is scheduled for public release on Wednesday.

The U.S. diplomatic service is facing damage that will have long-term consequences, said John Dinkelman, president of the association. Diplomats cited heavier workloads and sharp budget reductions as major factors contributing to low morale. Some also criticized Rubios leadership style and the strain of his multiple roles, including his position as national security advisor.

According to the association, roughly 25% of active Foreign Service officers have left government roles this year, and about 30% have adjusted their career plans since January. More than 80% of those surveyed reported that conducting U.S. foreign policy has become more difficult under Trump, while only 1% said it has become easier.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott responded to the critiques, asserting that Rubio has strengthened the influence of department officials. Secretary Rubio values candid feedback from dedicated Americans serving their country, Pigott said. This administration restructured the State Department to ensure regional bureaus and embassies can shape policy decisions.

Pigott emphasized that Rubio does not permit staff to undermine the administrations objectives and defended his multiple governmental roles. Now the N.S.C. and State Department operate fully in sync, a coordination that previous administrations struggled to achieve, he added.

Author: Zoe Harrison