White House Official Reveals Significant Uptake of Buyout Offers Among Federal Employees
On January 28, millions of federal employees received offers for deferred resignation in a memorandum.
A senior White House official reported on January 31 that federal government employees are taking advantage of the resignation offers from the Trump administration.
“A significant number of federal workers have accepted the buyout offer,” Stephen Miller told reporters. “It’s important to emphasize that federal workers who are dissatisfied with their jobs, who are unwilling to come to work, who don’t want to be in the office, and who lack enthusiasm for their roles, are certainly not the type of federal employee we want overseeing important matters that affect the American public.”
The new administration is focused on cutting federal expenses through the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency, which will manage these initiatives, as well as identifying the best candidates for jobs throughout the federal bureaucracy.
“This initiative coincides with a comprehensive reform of the federal hiring process to attract individuals who are committed to serving the public at the highest level,” Miller stated.
In an email notifying employees of the offer, it was indicated that extensive reform is forthcoming.
“Significant changes to the federal workforce are anticipated in the near future,” the email stated. “Due to these changes, and for other reasons, you might consider leaving the federal government under terms that allow you ample time and financial security to plan for your future—and enjoy a pleasant vacation.”
Employees who accept the resignation offer will have their letters effective from September 30, 2025. Agency leaders are instructed to reassign or eliminate the responsibilities of those who choose to leave.
Many employees opting to remain in their roles are requested to return to in-person work for five days a week. No assurances are given regarding future job security.
“At this moment, we are unable to provide complete certainty regarding your position or agency, but if your role is eliminated, you will be treated with respect and will benefit from the protections available for such situations,” stated the email.