Trump administration faces accusations of intimidation after CFPB union leader placed on leave

The Trump administration has been accused of using intimidation tactics after Stephen Wheeler, a data scientist at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and head of its union organizing committee, was placed on administrative leave without explanation. The National Treasury Employees Union Chapter 335 reports that the agency provided no specific allegations or scope for the investigation. Wheeler, who has been vocal at union pickets and criticized agency relocations, called the probe a "bullying" effort targeting union activity.

The union also highlighted the recent firing of Alexis Goldstein, another employee who raised concerns about data security, and noted delays in arbitration over her case. Agency officials have not responded to requests for comment, while critics point to broader efforts by the administration to curtail the CFPB’s operations.