Trump Administration Launches Major Layoffs Across Federal Agencies

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump signed an executive order on February 11, 2025, initiating large-scale layoffs across federal agencies, significantly impacting the nation’s workforce of approximately 2.4 million. This move follows his administration’s objective to drastically reduce government size by targeting probationary employees and reshaping federal operations in collaboration with Elon Musk’s newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The executive order, dubbed “Implementing The President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Workforce Optimization Initiative,” directs agency leaders to begin preparations for reductions in force (RIFs). Under the order, agencies will work under Musk’s guidance to minimize staffing levels and control future hiring operations.

According to the latest guidelines, agencies face significant restrictions on hiring, allowed to replace only one out of every four employees who leave. Furthermore, departments must work closely with DOGE representatives, who will assess which positions remain necessary.

The directive to dismiss many probationary employees, many of whom have less than a year of service, was confirmed by sources within the government. Affected departments have included the Office of Personnel Management, Department of Education, and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. As part of this plan, over 65,000 employees have already accepted a resignation offer, though this is below the administration’s goal.

Trump has previously dismantled certain initiatives and sidelined agency staff in anticipation of this broader workforce cut. Under the order, additional layoffs are expected in departments that have been previously targeted by the administration, particularly regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Everett Kelley, President of the American Federation of Government Employees, criticized the administration’s tactics, saying, “Today’s ruling is a setback in the fight for dignity and fairness for public servants. But it’s not the end of that fight.”

Unions have raised concerns about the abrupt nature of these layoffs, which come amid ongoing legal challenges that have temporarily halted some of the administration’s plans. The administration projects saving approximately $98 million annually with these cuts, but experts express skepticism about the long-term economic viability of such drastic measures.

According to government data, around 220,000 workers fall within the probationary period, which typically lasts up to two years. This recent directive marks a dramatic pivot in federal employment, leaving many workers anxious about their job security and future employment opportunities.

While Trump and Musk have advocated for these reforms as necessary to reduce waste and inefficiencies, critics argue that the approach penalizes newer employees who have demonstrated potential but lack tenure. “You can’t just eliminate the roots of the weed and expect that the weeds won’t grow back,” Musk stated in a public address, emphasizing the necessity for lasting change.

In the wake of these developments, federal workers face uncertainty over job stability and the increasingly opaque decision-making processes within their agencies. With layoffs already in motion, the complete impact of this policy remains to be seen, as agency leaders grapple with enforcement amid widespread unrest.