Report: 98% of U.S. Diplomats Experience a Sharp Decrease in Morale Under Trump
- Last update: 12/04/2025
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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.
Analysis: Diplomatic Morale Under Strain
The recent survey by the American Foreign Service Association highlights a stark decline in workplace morale among U.S. diplomats since President Trump took office. According to the data, 98% of surveyed diplomats report lower morale, with heavier workloads and budget cuts cited as primary causes.
The report, based on over 2,000 responses, indicates significant career disruptions: approximately 25% of active Foreign Service officers have left government positions this year, and about 30% have revised their career plans. More than 80% of respondents described the execution of U.S. foreign policy as more difficult under the current administration, while only 1% felt it had improved.
Criticism has also focused on Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s leadership style and the challenges of managing multiple high-level roles, including national security advisor. State Department officials defend these measures, emphasizing improved coordination between the National Security Council and the State Department, and asserting that the restructuring allows for stronger regional influence.
The survey suggests that the current administration’s policies and management approach are creating long-term challenges for U.S. diplomatic effectiveness, with potential consequences for both personnel retention and the implementation of foreign policy.
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Zoe Harrison
Zoe Harrison is a journalist focused on human interest stories and social issues. She excels at crafting compelling narratives and investigative features.
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