I think some of the issue is worry over (classified) data spillage, there are some things that are not supposed to be discussed with anyone that doesn't have a need to know.
If they can't say what they do without going into classified detail, they
should be fired. That's pretty simple stuff and the heads directing their staff to not comply with a freaking federal order need to be taken down. CIA agents can tell you what they do without divulging classified information. The SecState can tell you what he does.
Honestly, I had some sympathy for govvies in the beginning but now they're so defiant and insubordinate that I want them all fired. I don't want to pay for rebellious immature adults who think they are unaccountable and get all sassy when the people who pay them want communication. They don't want to go to work, whine whine; they don't want to answer an email, whine whine. Get the **** out. Go pick lettuce, take some Mexican illegal's place. Make motel beds, plenty of those jobs to be had.
I'm fed up with these people.