A conservative nonprofit group known as the Ben Franklin Fellowship has established significant influence within the State Department, alarming career diplomats and congressional Democrats. Founded by three former diplomats, the invitation-only organization has helped identify and recruit diplomats based on ideological alignment with Trump administration priorities rather than merit-based qualifications.

At least 25 fellowship members now hold senior State Department positions, with Christopher Landau serving as deputy secretary of state. Secretary Marco Rubio faces accusations of weakening diplomatic expertise by firing experienced officials while promoting Trump supporters. The group's predominantly white and male membership has openly opposed diversity policies, claiming they led to reverse discrimination against white men.

The fellowship operates as a 501(c)3 nonprofit without disclosing its funding sources, though it received financial backing from the Heritage Foundation. Critics have compared the group to a "Communist Party cell" within government, arguing it violates career diplomats' traditional nonpartisan principles. The organization's activities have prompted congressional scrutiny as diplomatic corps morale reportedly plummets under new leadership.