The U.S. State Department is reportedly inquiring about the voting records of career diplomats seeking senior overseas postings, focusing specifically on their ballots in recent presidential elections. While those who supported President Trump appear to remain eligible for mid-to-upper-level foreign service positions, the review also extends to campaign donation histories, raising questions about political influence in diplomatic appointments. The move comes amid broader scrutiny of federal hiring and loyalty standards under the current administration.


The State Department is asking some career diplomats who are applying for senior assignments about their voting history in the past three presidential elections, according to a report. Candidates who voted for President Trump would be eligible for the mid-to-upper-level foreign service roles, the Washington Sun reported, adding that campaign donations were also scrutinized. Federal...