Sweeping Workforce Cuts: Trump and Musk's Radical Downsizing of U.S. Government

President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are conducting a mass reduction of the U.S. government's 2.3-million-strong civilian workforce, aiming to cut over 100,000 jobs. While initial layoffs targeted probationary workers, court rulings are impacting reinstatements. Federal agencies are now intensifying efforts, with significant job cuts across numerous departments.

In an effort to significantly streamline the U.S. government workforce, President Donald Trump and businessman Elon Musk are spearheading a campaign that aims to reduce the federal headcount by over 100,000 positions.

Initial layoffs have largely impacted probationary employees, who have served less than a year and possess limited job security. However, a judge's recent ruling challenged the legality of approximately 25,000 of these layoffs, resulting in an order for their reinstatement, albeit on paid leave.

As agencies submit plans for further reductions by March 13, the Departments of Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and others have announced substantial cuts. These measures reflect a broader strategy to minimize federal workforce size, with potentially severe impacts on national security and public services.

(With inputs from agencies.)