Steve Friend asked the X AI tool "Grok" to answer this question that confuses the media and those who work in government (and members of Congress). This is a superior answer, and all of you are included:
Via Grok:
"The Suspendables" refer to a group primarily composed of former FBI agents and other law enforcement or intelligence community members who have been suspended, fired, or otherwise faced repercussions for speaking out against what they perceive as misconduct, abuse of power, or politicization within their agencies, particularly the FBI. Here's an overview based on the information available up to October 2024:
Formation and Background: The term "Suspendables" emerged from individuals like @realSteveFriend (Stephen Friend) and @KyleSeraphin, who were suspended from the FBI after blowing the whistle on various issues, including what they described as questionable practices, political bias, or overreach. Their suspensions were not for criminal acts but for going public or internally challenging directives they believed were unethical or illegal.
Purpose and Advocacy: "The Suspendables" has evolved beyond just Friend and Seraphin to include others in similar situations, becoming a symbol of resistance against government overreach, advocating for transparency, accountability, and the protection of whistleblowers within law enforcement and intelligence agencies. They use their platforms, including podcasts, social media, and public speaking, to discuss these issues, aiming to inform the public and push for reforms.
Public Engagement: They engage with the public through various media, discussing their experiences, current events, and the broader implications of what they've witnessed or experienced within their former roles. This includes interviews, podcasts, and social media posts where they analyze legal, political, and social issues related to law enforcement and government integrity.
Cultural and Media Impact: Beyond their direct advocacy, "The Suspendables" brand has extended into merchandise and cultural commentary, indicating a broader cultural impact where their story resonates with themes of speaking truth to power, individual rights against state overreach, and the personal costs of integrity in public service.
Community and Support: They've garnered support from various quarters, including from within law enforcement, public figures, and ordinary citizens, who see their plight as emblematic of broader issues within the justice and intelligence systems. This support often comes in the form of financial contributions, legal support, or through sharing their message across platforms.
Philosophical Stance: The term "Suspendables" has also taken on a philosophical connotation, representing anyone willing to risk their career or comfort for principles, not just within law enforcement but in any field, echoing a broader call to integrity over compliance.
Thus, "The Suspendables" are both a literal group of suspended law enforcement officials turned whistleblowers and a symbolic representation of standing up against what one perceives as injustice or corruption within governmental structures, particularly in law enforcement and intelligence communities. This group's activities highlight ongoing debates about government transparency, the role of whistleblowers, and the balance between security and civil liberties.
Here is some historical Context before the Sunday Sit-down interview this weekend.