Trump Administration Changes Performance Review System for Federal Workers

Washington, D.C. — The Trump administration aims to reform federal employee evaluations by reducing the number of high ratings given in annual performance reviews. A memo from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued on Tuesday states that agencies must adopt a new performance management system to improve accountability.

OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell explained that for decades, the performance management process has not met the expectations of the American public. This has led to inflated performance ratings and a lack of accountability among federal employees.

In the memo, Ezell emphasized that a “disproportionate number” of employees should not receive the highest reviews. The new guidelines define a ‘fully successful’ rating as one that meets all expectations and contributes meaningfully to agency goals. Higher ratings, Ezell noted, must reflect performance that exceeds responsibilities significantly.

The memo follows earlier reform efforts targeting performance standards for Senior Executive Service members and is intended to expand to all career federal employees. Agencies are expected to implement these changes by Oct. 1, 2026. They must submit progress reports by July 31.

Additionally, the memo outlines options for swift disciplinary actions, including employee removal for poor performance. Ezell stated, “Agencies should review and update their performance and disciplinary policies to ensure that poor performers can be swiftly removed or reassigned.” This is an emphasis on speed, especially for agencies that have had previous exemptions related to national security.

OPM has also adjusted its approach to probationary employee evaluations, giving agencies broader flexibility in terminating those who do not meet performance standards. Ezell affirmed that departments do not have to use “progressive discipline” and can directly remove employees if warranted.

The management changes come as the Trump administration continues to shift federal workforce policies significantly. Federal supervisors will soon face new expectations to ensure adherence to the revised performance standards and must undergo training on these new metrics.

“Federal employees should be held to the highest standards of performance and accountability,” Ezell stated in a press release. “These reforms will ensure that strong performers are rewarded, poor performers are addressed, and the American people receive the effective service they deserve,” he concluded.