20,000 US Federal Workers Accept Trump Administration's Resignation Scheme

20,000 US Federal Workers Accept Trump Administration's Resignation Scheme

At least 20,000 US government employees have reportedly agreed to resign under a scheme introduced by the Donald Trump administration, which offers continued pay until 30 September. The resignation programme, designed to reduce the federal workforce and cut spending, was presented to two million employees, with an initial estimate suggesting up to 200,000 might accept the offer.

Concerns and Opposition from Federal Unions

The plan has sparked significant opposition, particularly from the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which has filed a lawsuit to block mass resignations. AFGE President Everett Kelley condemned the initiative, calling it a "con job" that forces workers to waive legal rights while offering no guarantee that payments will be honored. The current federal budget is set to expire in March, further raising doubts about the promised salaries.

CIA Joins the Programme Amid National Security Concerns

On Tuesday, the CIA became the first national security agency to extend the offer to its employees. Newly appointed CIA Director John Ratcliffe personally approved the agency’s participation, with reports suggesting some employees may be restricted from resigning based on their expertise. The Wall Street Journal reported that the CIA has also frozen hiring for those with conditional offers, adding further uncertainty.

Growing Anxiety Among Federal Employees

Workers have expressed fear and confusion over the programme, with some describing it as a "take it or lose your job" ultimatum. Many are concerned that they may never receive the promised salaries, while others fear forced layoffs for those who reject the deal. One anonymous federal worker stated, "It appears rude and appalling… there’s no guarantee we will actually get paid."

Political and Public Reactions

The programme has received support from leading Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, who praised it as a "long overdue reform" to control government spending. However, it has also triggered nationwide protests, with thousands demonstrating against Trump’s restructuring efforts, particularly in Michigan, where more than 1,000 people gathered.

With the Thursday deadline approaching, uncertainty looms over the long-term impact of the programme, as many workers remain hesitant about whether to accept the buy-out offer or risk potential layoffs.