Key Takeaways

• DHS records, including text messages, were deleted by April 9.
• A watchdog says this breaks the Federal Records Act.
• Similar deletions happened after the January 6 attack.
• Experts doubt any real accountability will follow.

What Happened to DHS Records?

In late July, American Oversight asked DHS for text records. They wanted messages tied to National Guard troops in Los Angeles. On July 23, DHS said it no longer had those messages. The agency claimed it deleted records by April 9. American Oversight says DHS records must be kept by law. Chioma Chukwu of the group called this a clear violation. She noted officials use texts for official government business.

Why DHS Records Matter

Records let us trace decisions and actions clearly. They hold officials responsible for their choices. Without records, we cannot see who approved key moves. Transparency collapses when data simply disappears. Anne Weismann, a law professor, stressed this point.

History of Deleted Records

After the January 6 breach, DHS sought Secret Service texts. Many messages from that period later turned up missing. Meanwhile, aides to a top defense official may have wiped apps. They deleted messages on an encrypted service called Signal. Investigations still probe whether they were told to erase chats.

The Law on Federal Records

The Federal Records Act demands agencies keep all work files. It covers emails, memos, and yes, text messages too. Congress wrote the law so citizens can see government acts. When agencies delete records on purpose, they break that law. American Oversight warned DHS of this exact violation.

Roadblocks to Accountability

Even clear breaches may go unpunished. A Justice Department probe must start with the National Archives. Then it needs a referral to the attorney general. But the top archivist was recently fired by the president. Her duties now rest with a loyal political ally. He has shown no sign he will seek justice here.

Expert Views on Transparency

You cannot hold people accountable without records, said Weismann. She added that you cannot claim transparency if you delete data. Lauren Harper of the Freedom of the Press Foundation agreed. She noted that deleting records does not erase FOIA duties. Harper compared this to a fire department ditching its hoses.

Why December’s Guard Deployment Matters

Los Angeles saw National Guard troops in June for security. That action raised many questions at city and state levels. Officials turned to DHS for coordination and command. Text records would show who gave orders and why. Without DHS records, we lose a clear picture of events.

Potential Impact on Public Trust

When agencies quietly delete messages, trust erodes fast. Citizens may wonder what else they cannot see. They might doubt future transparency promises. Trust in government relies on open record keeping. These lapses threaten that foundation.

What Could Happen Next

The National Archives could demand DHS explain the deletions. It might force a review of record-keeping policies. However, without real pressure, agencies often resist change. Congress could hold hearings to shine a light on the issue. But major partisan fights may stall any reform efforts.

Steps to Improve Record-Keeping

Agencies should ban message auto-deletion on official phones. They could require backups of all texts to secure servers. Training must remind staff that texts count as official records. Auditors could verify compliance regularly. Failure to comply should trigger real penalties.

Why You Should Care

Government choices affect daily life everywhere. Knowing who decided what and why matters to everyone. Record deletions hide details of crucial national events. If we let agencies erase evidence, we lose our rights. Staying informed and pushing for transparency keeps power in check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did DHS delete those text messages?

DHS claims it no longer maintained the messages after April 9. Watchdogs say that removal broke federal law.

What law requires DHS records to be kept?

The Federal Records Act mandates agencies keep work-related messages. This includes texts sent or received on official devices.

How can deletions affect public trust?

Removing records stops citizens from seeing decisions. When people suspect cover-ups, they lose faith in government.

Could there be consequences for DHS?

In theory, the National Archives could refer the case to Justice. However, past deletions have rarely led to real penalties.