WASHINGTON (AP) — In a significant move to reshape the federal workforce, the Trump administration has issued a memo instructing federal agencies to develop plans aimed at eliminating certain employee positions. This directive aligns with President Donald Trump's long-standing goal of reducing what he perceives as a bloated government structure. The initiative could potentially lead to a major realignment of American government operations.
The memo, which represents an expansion of the Republican president’s efforts to streamline government operations, calls for agencies to submit their plans by March 13. These plans focus on a process known as a reduction in force (RIF), which not only involves laying off employees but also eliminating their positions entirely. This move is expected to result in extensive changes in governmental functions.
Russell Vought, director of the White House’s Office of Management and Budget, and Charles Ezell, acting director of the Office of Personnel Management, emphasized the administration's stance in the memo. They described the federal government as “costly, inefficient, and deeply in debt,” asserting that it fails to deliver satisfactory results for the American public.
The president's vision was previously outlined in an executive order signed with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who advises Trump on governmental overhaul strategies. The order directed agency leaders to prepare for large-scale reductions in force. Some departments, like the General Services Administration, have already initiated this process, notifying employees that efforts would be made to ensure a fair and dignified departure.
This memo coincides with President Trump preparing for the first Cabinet meeting of his second term, including the participation of Musk, who oversees the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Cabinet secretaries are expected to follow DOGE's guidance as they provide updates on their policies and implementation of campaign promises.
Elon Musk's involvement has stirred controversy within the federal workforce. His demand for employees to justify their roles or face termination has been particularly contentious. However, the Office of Personnel Management later clarified that this requirement was voluntary.
As the administration moves forward with these plans, the potential restructuring of the federal workforce underlines a pivotal shift in how the American government might operate in the future.
