DOGE Power Expands as Federal Agencies Prepare for Large-Scale Layoffs

The Trump administration is moving forward with its plan to drastically reduce the federal workforce, instructing agency leaders to prepare for mass layoffs under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Tuesday.

The directive, titled “Implementing The President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Workforce Optimization Initiative,” requires agencies to coordinate closely with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to execute the workforce reductions. The order also imposes strict limits on hiring, allowing agencies to replace only one out of every four departing employees and restricting new hires to the most critical roles.

Additionally, DOGE officials will have the authority to block hiring for career positions they deem unnecessary unless overridden by department heads. Agency leaders must also submit monthly hiring reports to DOGE, further solidifying the agency’s influence over federal staffing decisions.

Federal Workforce Faces Uncertainty

With roughly 2.4 million federal employees, the workforce has already felt the impact of Trump’s aggressive restructuring efforts. Many agencies have seen initiatives dismantled, while Musk’s representatives have gained access to internal systems, though multiple courts have temporarily halted some of their efforts.

The administration had previously hinted at widespread layoffs, particularly targeting employees who did not accept the government’s deferred resignation offer, which is currently on hold due to a federal court ruling. More than 65,000 workers have accepted the offer, but the number still falls short of the White House’s goal of cutting 5% to 10% of federal employees.

The executive order prioritizes workforce reductions in areas Trump has frequently criticized, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, as well as agency initiatives that have been suspended or slated for closure. Additionally, agencies will review which divisions—or entire departments—could be eliminated or consolidated due to a lack of legal mandate.

Exceptions and Controversy

The order explicitly exempts reductions in public safety, immigration enforcement, and law enforcement roles.

In recent weeks, Trump has already taken steps to overhaul the federal workforce. Employees in federal DEI and accessibility offices have been placed on paid administrative leave, while the administration has attempted to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)—a move that has been temporarily blocked by a judge.

Meanwhile, workers at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) were notified that their Washington, D.C., headquarters would be closed for the week, with staff instructed to work remotely.

The sweeping workforce changes signal a major shift in federal government operations, with the White House determined to push ahead despite legal challenges.