White House Anticipates Surge in Federal Resignations Amid Voluntary Buyout Deadline

The White House is bracing for a significant rise in federal resignations as the deadline approaches for voluntary buyouts offered to nearly all federal employees. This opportunity comes in response to President Trump’s initiative requiring government workers to return to their offices after prolonged remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Impending Deadline Sparks Unprecedented Activity

Government employees have until Thursday to accept the buyout offer. Based on insights from a White House official, a substantial influx of resignations is anticipated in the final hours leading up to this deadline. “The number of deferred resignations is rapidly growing, and we’re expecting the largest spike 24 to 48 hours before the deadline,” the official shared with Fox News Digital on Tuesday morning.

Current Buyout Participation Levels

Reports indicate that approximately 20,000 federal employees have taken the buyout offer, constituting about 1% of the federal workforce. However, the White House clarified that this figure might not accurately reflect the most current situation, suggesting ongoing changes.

Mandatory Return to Office Policy

The Office of Personnel Management, which acts as the federal government’s human resources arm, recently informed around 2 million federal employees that they must return to in-person work five days a week. Those unwilling to comply can leave their positions through the buyout option.

Employees accepting the buyout will maintain their pay and benefits, while also being exempt from in-person work until September 30. This initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance workforce efficiency within the government.

Anticipating Workforce Reduction

In previous remarks, President Trump indicated, “We think a very substantial number of people will not show up to work, and, therefore, our government will get smaller and more efficient. And that’s what we’ve been looking to do for many, many decades.” This statement emphasizes a push towards reducing the size of the federal workforce.

Scope of the Buyouts

Notably, the buyout opportunity excludes certain categories, such as military personnel, U.S. Postal Service workers, and employees involved in immigration enforcement or national security roles.

Projected Resignation Rates

Previously, the White House had estimated that 5% to 10% of the federal workforce might resign as a result of this plan. As the deadline approaches, agencies prepare for the potential loss of talent and experience.

Agency Efficiency Hearings Underway

Simultaneously, the Department of Government Efficiency—led by tech magnate Elon Musk—is examining various government departments to address perceived overspending and corruption. This scrutiny reflects a growing movement in establishing a more efficient government.

Recent Agency Challenges

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recently found itself in the spotlight as hundreds of its staff reported disruptions accessing the agency’s computer systems. On Monday, USAID’s Washington, D.C., headquarters was locked, heightening concerns about operational integrity.

The Debate Around USAID

On social media, Musk has labeled USAID as problematic, expressing that the organization is filled with “marxists” who undermine American values. His provocative assertions have ignited discussions surrounding the agency’s operational impact.

Musk’s criticisms reflect his broader agenda to reshape governmental functions, raising questions about the future of various federal agencies under his influence and guidance.

A Turning Point for Federal Employment

As the situation unfolds, federal employees face critical decisions that could shape the landscape of the government workforce. The outcomes of the buyout program and subsequent resignations will likely have lasting implications for how federal agencies operate moving forward.