Joshua Stueve, a senior communications adviser and top spokesperson for the Department of Justice (DOJ), has resigned, citing a “toxic work environment” and federal leadership concerns in his resignation letter.
“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 welcomed or valued, much less trusted to do our jobs,” Stueve wrote in his letter obtained by The Hill.
Stueve mentioned in his correspondence that his career had spanned across administrations from both political parties. He further continued that the results of the latest general election played no part in his decision.
“To be clear, the outcome of the most recent general election did not influence my decision. In fact, 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,” Stueve added.
Stueve’s resignation is the latest in a wave of departures and dismissals within the federal government since the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) began reviewing agencies to cut costs, restructure operations, and prompting widespread resignations.
His departure also coincides with major upheaval at the DOJ following Attorney General Pam Bondi’s appointment earlier this month.
Since assuming office, Bondi has led a shake-up within the department, resulting in several high-profile resignations and terminations of senior career officials.
Who is Joshua Stueve?
Joshua Stueve, who joined the Department of Justice (DOJ) in 2010 and served through the first Trump administration, has been the department’s senior communications advisor since January 2021.
From 2014 to 2021, Joshua Stueve served as the Director of Public Affairs at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA).
Prior to that, from 2010 to 2014, he was the Public Affairs Officer for the National Intrepid Center of Excellence at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Stueve’s career in public service began in the US Marine Corps, where he served from 1998 to 2007—spending five years as an infantryman before transitioning to public affairs for the remaining four years.
He is a proud graduate of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Camp Lejeune’s School of Infantry, the Defense School of Information, and The Ohio State University.
