CONTROVERSIAL FEDERAL WORKER
Program Overview
The Trump administration introduced a federal buyout called the “deferred resignation program,”
aimed at nearly 2 million civilian employees.
It offers full pay and benefits through September for workers who resign by February 6,
with goals of cutting costs and encouraging a “return to in-person work.”
Rationale
Officials note that only about 6% of federal employees in Washington, D.C., work on-site.
The administration sees this as a productivity issue and views the program as a way to reshape the workforce.
Administration Response
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied claims of a “political purge,”
saying the policy focuses on efficiency and savings, not politics.
Debate and Impact
Supporters call it a voluntary reform to modernize government.
Critics warn it could weaken services by pushing experienced staff to leave,
raising concerns about morale and public service effectiveness.
