Washington: The U.S. government dismissed over 9,500 employees on Thursday. This is part of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s effort to reshape the federal workforce.
The Department of Veterans Affairs laid off over 1,000 employees. The U.S. Forest Service plans to cut more than 3,000 jobs. Other agencies, including the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency, are also expected to see significant reductions in staff.
Trump defended the decision. He said the government is too large and wasteful. The federal deficit was $1.8 trillion last year. The national debt has reached $36 trillion.
Critics are worried about Musk’s influence. They say he has too much power in Trump’s administration. Many of those fired were on probation, making them easier to dismiss. Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about the scale of the cuts and their potential impact on essential government services.
The Department of Veterans Affairs said the move will save $98 million per year. The money will go toward healthcare and benefits for veterans. Officials from the White House claim these layoffs will improve efficiency and eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy.
Legal Battle Ahead?
Fourteen states have filed a lawsuit against the firings. They argue Musk’s appointment is illegal. They claim he has too much control without Congress’ approval. Some legal experts predict the case could reach the Supreme Court.
Most government workers have job protections. They can only be fired for poor performance or misconduct. However, probationary employees have fewer rights.
Union leaders have condemned the mass firings. They say the dismissals were rushed and politically motivated. The layoffs are expected to continue. More legal challenges may follow. Public protests are also being planned in major cities, with organizers calling for greater accountability and transparency in the government’s decision-making process.
