Trump-Era Layoffs and the Future of the Federal Workforce
civil service rights federal layoffs mindfulness at work mspb appeals whistleblower protections Sep 17, 2025This week, Politico confirmed what many federal employees have been experiencing firsthand: sweeping staff cuts across the government. Nearly 200,000 federal workers are gone in 2025 alone, with another 100,000 projected by year’s end. The Department of Defense has lost 56,000 civilian positions. Agriculture is down 22,000, and Health and Human Services has seen 13,000 departures.
Behind the headlines, the administration is labeling career employees “crooked” or “dishonest.” Yet the numbers tell a different story. Despite intense political rhetoric and the fear of job loss, the federal quit rate remains steady at 0.5 percent—less than a quarter of the private sector rate. Federal employees are not walking away from their missions.
Why Employees Stay—and Resist
That stability reflects something important: commitment. Many federal workers are staying not just to preserve retirement eligibility or student loan forgiveness, but because they believe their work matters. Reports of lawsuits, whistleblower complaints, and even symbolic acts of resistance—such as “clap-outs” when colleagues are forced out—show a workforce unwilling to quietly disappear.
This is not a “deep state” conspiracy. It is the hallmark of public service: showing up under pressure, even when it feels impossible.
The Legal Risks of Speaking Out
But the risks are real. Agency heads are using suspensions, removals, and so-called “deferred resignation” agreements to pressure employees. These agreements often look like a choice between a buyout or an uncertain termination. Before signing, employees should carefully weigh how such agreements affect retirement credit, pension eligibility, or future reinstatement rights. In some cases, agreeing to leave may seem safer in the short term but close off options later.
If you are pressured into a resignation or threatened with removal, remember: you still have rights. Many actions are appealable to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). Others may implicate whistleblower protections or EEO laws. Consulting with counsel early—before you make irreversible choices—is often the best safeguard.
A Mindful Perspective in Uncertain Times
The scale of these layoffs is not just a legal issue; it is a human one. Fear, anger, exhaustion—all of these are natural responses. Mindfulness offers a way to steady yourself in the storm. Practices of non-identification—recognizing that you are more than your GS level, your clearance, or your agency—can help soften the blow of uncertainty.
Yes, the future of the civil service is on the line. But in the present moment, you still have choices: to protect your rights, to care for your well-being, and to stay grounded in the values that led you to public service.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
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