Blinken questioned about hosting in-house therapy sessions at the State Department after Trump's election victory.

Blinken was pressured by Issa to disclose the cost of the sessions to the State Department.

Blinken questioned about hosting in-house therapy sessions at the State Department after Trump's election victory.
Blinken questioned about hosting in-house therapy sessions at the State Department after Trump's election victory.

Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., criticized Secretary of State Antony Blinken after it was reported that the State Department provided therapy sessions for employees who were distressed by President-elect Trump's election victory.

Issa expressed his concern in a letter to Blinken last week that the Department is providing government-funded mental health counseling to federal employees who are emotionally distressed by the functioning of American democracy, as Kamala Harris did not become the President of the United States.

Earlier this month, a Free Beacon report revealed two alleged therapy sessions held at the State Department following Trump's victory, with one session reportedly being an "information cry session."

California Congressman Darrell Issa
Rep. Darrell Issa argued that the reported sessions were "disturbing." (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

An email was sent to agency employees promoting a webinar on effective stress management techniques following Trump's victory, as reported.

"The email stated that change is a constant in our lives, but it can often bring about stress and uncertainty. To help you navigate these challenging times, join us for an insightful webinar on effective stress management techniques. This session will provide tips and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining your well-being."

In his letter to Blinken, Issa contended that the reported sessions were "troubling" and that "impartial government officials" should not be experiencing a "personal breakdown due to the outcome of a fair and impartial election."

Trump at a campaign event
President-elect Trump at a campaign event in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The Republican lawmaker recognized the significance of the mental health of the agency's employees but questioned the allocation of taxpayer funds for counseling those upset about the election. He demanded information on the number of sessions held, the number of sessions planned, and the cost of these sessions to the department.

Issa expressed concerns that the sessions may challenge the readiness of certain State Department staff to implement Trump's updated agency plan.

Secretary Blinken
Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a ceremony on May 10, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf)

"The hosting of these sessions by the Department raises doubts about the personnel's commitment to implementing the Trump administration's legal policy priorities. If foreign service officers cannot align with the American people's foreign policy preferences, they should resign and seek political appointments in the next Democrat administration."

The State Department declined to comment on a Planet Chronicle Digital request.

by Michael Lee

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