By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A top union leader warns that Donald Trump’s return to office will likely result in widespread harassment, intimidation, and corruption within the US federal government. This is fueled by Trump’s and his allies’ support for mass firings of civil servants and the abolishment of agencies, potentially utilizing the controversial Schedule F executive order to remove civil service protections from thousands of employees. This action would reverse over 150 years of merit-based hiring practices established by the Pendleton Act, undermining employee protections and increasing the risk of corruption. The anticipated implementation of Schedule F, central to the rightwing Project 2025 plan, threatens to significantly weaken unions and impair the government’s ability to function effectively.
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Federal workers are facing a future under a potential Trump administration with palpable anxiety, their morale plummeting to what many describe as an all-time low. The prospect of another term has ignited a deep sense of uncertainty and dread among many within the federal workforce, stemming from a combination of past experiences and anxieties about the future.
The potential for another government shutdown looms large in the minds of federal employees, triggering memories of past financial hardships and the immense stress of missed paychecks. The lack of financial security during these periods underscores a profound vulnerability and leaves many feeling uncertain about their ability to meet basic financial obligations. This anxiety is amplified by the knowledge that such events could easily reoccur under a leadership that has shown little regard for the well-being of civil servants.
Beyond the economic anxieties, a more fundamental fear is pervasive: the devaluing of expertise and experience within the federal government. The potential for widespread dismissals or purposeful disruption of government functions adds fuel to the already intense apprehension. The very foundation of their professional lives – their dedication to public service – feels increasingly under attack, leaving many feeling deeply disillusioned.
Many federal workers express concern about the potential for increased political pressure and interference in their work. The possibility of being forced to make decisions based on partisan politics rather than evidence and expertise is profoundly disheartening, undermining the integrity and professionalism they are trained to uphold. The fear of being compelled to engage in actions that violate their ethical principles adds another layer of immense stress.
Concerns extend beyond individual workers to the very fabric of government agencies. The possibility of a hiring freeze or significant budget cuts casts a shadow over the future of many government programs and their capacity to serve the public. The erosion of institutional knowledge and expertise, as experienced workers leave or are replaced, is a deeply unsettling prospect.
The widespread feeling among these workers isn’t just about potential job loss. It’s about the systematic dismantling of expertise and the erosion of public trust in governmental institutions. Many worry about the potential for an increase in politicization of their work, leaving them feeling increasingly powerless and unable to effectively serve the public interest.
Adding to the anxiety is the belief that many within the federal government may have voted for this very outcome. The internal divisions within the workforce create a sense of unease, fostering an environment of distrust and making collaborative efforts considerably more difficult. The awareness that some colleagues may share the views of the incoming administration, or at least condone them, creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and even resentment.
The potential for abuse and complicity further fuels the anxiety. The concern that some within the government might actively participate in or tolerate actions that undermine democratic values is a significant source of apprehension. Federal workers fear for the future not only of their jobs, but of the very institutions they are dedicated to upholding.
The low morale isn’t just a feeling amongst federal workers, but rather a reflection of a broader national mood. Many view the situation as a consequence of the choices made by the electorate, a clear indication of a nation deeply divided. A sense of helplessness permeates many conversations, with some feeling that the current trajectory is unavoidable.
The sheer unpredictability of a Trump administration adds to the overall feeling of dread. The lack of clear policy positions or predictable behavior makes planning and decision-making exceptionally difficult, leaving many federal workers in a state of constant apprehension. The potential for arbitrary actions and unexpected policy changes adds a significant degree of uncertainty to their professional lives. This creates a chilling effect that significantly impacts productivity and overall job satisfaction.
This collective anxiety isn’t solely about partisan politics; it’s about the potential for damage to the very core functions of government. The perceived threat to democratic institutions, to the rule of law, and to the very ability of the government to effectively serve its citizens are all contributing to the unprecedented low morale among federal workers. Their apprehension is a reflection of much broader concerns about the future of the nation as a whole.