Trump Budget Push Sparks Largest Federal Exit in History
The Trump administration is preparing for the largest mass resignation in U.S. history, with over 100,000 federal workers expected to leave as part of a deferred resignation program. This mass departure coincides with a looming Congressional deadline to approve funding or risk a government shutdown. The White House has
The Trump administration is preparing for the largest mass resignation in U.S. history, with over 100,000 federal workers expected to leave as part of a deferred resignation program. This mass departure coincides with a looming Congressional deadline to approve funding or risk a government shutdown. The White House has also directed agencies to develop plans for large-scale layoffs if negotiations fail.
Workers leaving under the program cite fear, intimidation, and a sense of mission loss as reasons for departure. A FEMAemployee described feeling driven out by job insecurity and scapegoating, while many employees expressed disappointment over leaving careers they valued.
The resignation initiative costs approximately $14.8 billion, covering full salaries and benefits for employees on administrative leave for up to eight months. The administration argues this expense reduces long-term government spending, claiming the program will save $28 billion annually and represents the largest workforce reduction in history. The total expected departures, including early retirements and voluntary separations, are around 275,000 employees, representing the largest decline in federal civilian employment since WWII.
Many federal workers who accepted the resignation offer prefer anonymity to protect future employment prospects. They face a challenging job market, with an unemployment rate rising to 4.3% and minimal new job growth. Workers describe the decision as emotional, with some feeling burned out or pressured, and others citing fear tactics used by officials like OMB head Russell Vought, who expressed a desire to demoralize federal employees.
Also Read: Q2 US Growth Hits 3.8%, Exceeding Expectations
Labor unions have filed a lawsuit arguing that the buyout circumvents congressional authority and undermines federal functions. Overall, this mass exodus reflects significant political and economic tensions, with many workers leaving under duress amid a turbulent political climate and uncertainty for the federal workforce's future.
Share this article Latest News Categories More News