One of the most notable aspects of Trump’s presidency was his approach to personnel. He was known for making quick appointments and dismissals, often bypassing the traditional vetting process. For instance, he replaced senior officials in key agencies, including the FBI, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Homeland Security, which sent shockwaves throughout the civil service. These moves were seen as part of a broader effort to reshape the government according to his personal and political preferences.
Many federal workers were particularly stunned by the level of turnover at the highest levels of government. Trump’s administration saw the firing or resignation of numerous cabinet members, agency heads, and other senior officials, which created an atmosphere of instability. This constant reshuffling was coupled with the administration’s tendency to bypass established bureaucratic procedures, which undermined the traditional checks and balances that federal employees rely on.
The changes also extended to policy shifts, which were often made without extensive consultation with career civil servants or subject-matter experts. Trump’s push for deregulation, cuts to federal programs, and significant reductions in staff at certain agencies, like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Education, created anxiety among workers. Many federal employees worried about job security and the long-term impact of these changes on their work.
Moreover, Trump’s public criticisms of the federal workforce, which he sometimes referred to as the “deep state,” further strained relations with federal workers. His rhetoric and policies often left them feeling like they were under attack, creating a tense environment in federal offices across the country.
In sum, Trump’s rapid changes in the U.S. government, combined with his unconventional leadership style and frequent policy reversals, left many federal workers in a state of confusion and uncertainty. The constant turnover and the shifting political landscape created a difficult environment for those working in government, with many questioning how much longer their roles would remain secure or aligned with the broader mission of public service.
