Federal Workers Face Uncertainty as Trump Administration Pushes for Mass Resignations

WASHINGTON (AP) — A sobering decision looms for millions of federal employees across the United States. As they decide whether to take a lucrative offer that could see them leaving their jobs with several months of pay, the uncertainty is palpable. At the center of this turmoil is Elon Musk, who wields significant influence over the Trump administration, aiming to reshape the federal government.

Elon Musk’s Influence on Federal Resignation Offers

Musk, a close adviser to President Donald Trump, has crafted a deferred resignation program that incentivizes federal employees to leave. An anonymous worker in the Pacific Northwest, contemplating the offer, expressed reservations. “What if this is too good to be true?” the worker asked, worried about the potential repercussions. This sentiment is echoed by many within the federal workforce.

More than 2 million government employees, from analysts to food inspectors, face a deadline of 11:59 p.m. EST Thursday to decide their future. The program promises financial security but comes with an air of suspicion. Does this scenario mask a broader attempt to identify and potentially remove disloyal employees?

Trump Administration’s Motives and Strategy

The deferred resignation program is part of Trump’s broader initiative to restructure the federal government. Administration officials claim that offering this “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” will save taxpayers money while allowing employees to earn until September 30. The plan involves restructuring agencies, realigning roles, and reducing staff, which Musk’s “Department of Government Efficiency” aims to oversee.

On Wednesday, the Office of Personnel Management sent an email intensifying pressure on employees to accept the offer. “The majority of federal agencies are likely to be downsized,” the email stated. “Employees who remain will face enhanced standards and could face termination for misconduct.”