Exodus of Federal Workers: Trump’s Impact on Job Security and Morale

In a sudden shift of circumstances, Liz Goggin, a former federal employee, found herself reflecting on her past role while engaging with a veteran at a local ice cream shop. The brief interaction sparked memories of her previous work at the Veterans Health Administration, where she had spent a decade connecting veterans with crucial services. Despite wanting to help, Goggin realized her new life outside of government limited her ability to assist the veteran beyond offering advice.

An Unexpected Departure

Goggin’s departure from her role as a clinical social worker came after she was twice denied the “Fork in the Road” buyout offer. This decision came amidst a backdrop of upheaval within the federal workforce, precipitated by President Trump’s return to office. By the end of 2025, the Office of Personnel Management estimates that around 317,000 federal employees will have left their positions, whether due to firings, resignations, or retirements driven by the fear of job instability. Many, like Goggin, cited challenging working conditions as a primary reason for leaving.

“Things felt really hard,” Goggin remarked, highlighting new, unexpected demands and mandates that contributed to a low morale among employees. One such directive involved reporting any perceived anti-Christian bias among co-workers, a bias Goggin claims she never observed during her tenure at the VA.

Controversial Changes and Their Impact

The federal workforce’s shake-up was further intensified by Trump’s executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Mahri Stainnak, who worked in the Office of Personnel Management’s DEI office, was among those affected. Stainnak, who was put on leave and later fired, described their role in promoting diverse backgrounds within the federal workforce. Despite transitioning to a new role before Trump’s administration, Stainnak still faced termination.

Stainnak is now involved in a class-action lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging illegal discrimination against DEI employees, many of whom are people of color, women, or LGBTQ+ community members. The lawsuit contends that the administration targeted these employees based on perceived political beliefs and advocacy for protected groups.

Debate Over Federal Workforce Changes

Trump’s efforts to “drain the swamp” have been met with mixed reactions. While Trump claims these measures are designed to eliminate waste and inefficiency, critics argue that they are dismantling essential government functions. Max Stier, president of the Partnership for Public Service, warns that such actions could take the country back to a patronage system from the 1800s.

Despite these challenges, some former federal employees like Goggin have found success in private practice, though they remain wistful about their time in government service. Goggin now runs a therapy practice, utilizing the skills she honed during her federal career. Although she enjoys her new role, Goggin continues to check government job listings, keeping the door open for a potential return.

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