Demonstrators gathered outside the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C., on Friday to show support for federal workers affected by widespread layoffs in the federal government, according to Mark Schiefelbein of AP. The Trump administration’s initiative to significantly reduce the size of the federal government has led to thousands of federal employees being laid off. These reductions are impacting various sectors and agencies, including public health, consumer protection, and national parks. Employees have described the notification process as disorganized, creating uncertainty about their job security and the future of their teams. In some instances, workers received layoff notices that were rescinded within hours or days.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an informal group created by President Trump to reduce federal spending, is spearheading these efforts. Nick Bednar, an associate professor of law at the University of Minnesota, noted the unprecedented speed and breadth of these layoffs compared to past government downsizing practices. He likened the approach to using a sledgehammer rather than a scalpel to cut the workforce. Some agencies, including the Department of Energy, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Agriculture (USDA), are attempting to reverse some of these layoffs.
Bednar suggested that a lack of understanding of the programs among political appointees, as well as potential political pressure from Congress, contributed to the confusion. Despite efforts to reinstate some employees, Bednar emphasized that the chaotic process could damage the federal government’s reputation as an employer. He pointed out the insecurity felt by employees who were fired and then rehired, questioning their job’s ongoing stability.
The situation is also causing concern among the public, highlighting perceived government mismanagement. Elon Musk, overseeing DOGE, defended the initiative, acknowledging imperfections and pledging swift corrections. Notably, the Indian Health Service managed to retain about 950 employees after intervention by the Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who highlighted the importance of addressing chronic disease levels among American Indians.
Similar issues have arisen in other agencies. The National Nuclear Security Administration experienced chaos when ordered to dismiss over 100 employees, some of whom have since been rehired. The Bonneville Power Administration also reversed some job cuts but continues to face workforce reductions. The USDA is attempting to rehire employees involved in managing the avian influenza outbreak, while uncertainty continues at the Department of Veterans Affairs following the planned dismissal of 1,000 employees.
In light of these developments, Democratic lawmakers are urging the Veterans Affairs Department to reinstate employees and avoid future mass terminations without operational clarity. NPR’s Geoff Brumfiel contributed to reporting on these events.
