President Trump has signed an executive order reclassifying approximately 8,000 senior federal employees as at-will workers, removing civil service protections that shielded them from political interference. - The order affects GS-15 level employees, including policy office leaders, chiefs of staff, regional heads, and program managers.
- The administration argues it enhances accountability, but critics warn it politicizes the workforce and could drive away experienced staff. - The move faces multiple lawsuits, with experts predicting the issue will reach the Supreme Court.
- The number affected is smaller than the 50,000 initially estimated, but the administration may expand the pool later. The order creates a new Schedule Policy/Career category and removes appeal rights for affected employees, though whistleblower protections remain.
The litigation is ongoing, with a Supreme Court decision expected soon on related precedents.