The Trump administration has introduced a significant policy change aimed at reshaping the structure of federal employment, allowing for increased firings of federal employees and transforming numerous positions into politically appointed roles accountable directly to the president. This initiative was formalized by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) with the release of a new rule invoking “Schedule F.” This rule reclassifies a substantial number of federal positions, shifting them from civil service roles, which traditionally enjoy job protection irrespective of political leadership, to political appointments that are contingent upon alignment with presidential policies.
The president emphasized the necessity of this measure, asserting that government personnel who do not support the president’s policy objectives or engage in unethical conduct should be dismissed. He articulated this stance via his Truth Social platform, advocating for a federal government that operates efficiently akin to a business. This directive reflects an executive order issued on his initial day in office, which sought to reclassify numerous federal workers.
This policy is not a novel concept but rather a revival of an initiative first proposed by Trump towards the end of his initial tenure. The initiative was reversed by Joe Biden upon assuming the presidency in 2020. The concept resonates with Project 2025, a conservative policy agenda, advocating for a federal government more responsive to executive directives, aimed at eliminating what is perceived as a “deep state” opposing Trump’s agenda during his previous term.
Traditionally, most federal government employees serve in non-political roles, with approximately 4,000 positions appointed based on the current administration. The recent move is expected to expand this cadre by about 50,000 positions, according to earlier estimates. This development aligns with the ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to overhaul federal priorities and replace personnel who implement policies contrary to Trump’s vision.