Federal employees across America are reeling from a controversial “deferred resignation” program that critics call a politically motivated attack on career civil servants. New revelations show nearly 14,000 workers accepted offers before the February 12 deadline – but unions warn many were misled by deceptive tactics.
The Trump-Musk Connection
The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) has exposed ties between the program and billionaire Elon Musk’s Neuralink project. Internal documents reveal participants were offered:
- 6-month severance packages contingent on signing non-disclosure agreements
- Priority hiring status at Musk-affiliated companies
- Voided benefits for those speaking publicly about their exit
“This was a scare tactic to purge experienced workers,” said NFFE President Randy Erwin in a CNN interview. “They’re replacing nonpartisan experts with political loyalists.”
DEI Programs Slashed
The White House has simultaneously eliminated 87% of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives since January 2025. Career diplomats and climate scientists appear disproportionately targeted, with:
| Agency | Position Eliminations |
|---|---|
| EPA | 412 |
| State Department | 297 |
| NASA | 153 |
Legal Firestorm Erupts
17 Democratic attorneys general have filed amicus briefs supporting lawsuits against the program. Massachusetts AG Andrea Campbell stated: “This illegal scheme aims to dismantle decades of institutional knowledge”. Meanwhile, reinstatement petitions have surged 240% compared to 2024 levels.
“Federal workers keep America running through administrations of all parties. Targeting them undermines democracy itself.” – Former OPM Director Janice Lachance
What’s Next?
OPM maintains the program was voluntary, but congressional hearings begin March 1. Key developments to watch:
- Senate investigation into Musk’s role (Chairman requests documents by Feb 28)
- Class-action lawsuit filing in D.C. District Court (Feb 25)
- New union-led hotline for affected workers: 1-888-NFFE-HELP
