President Trump’s return to the White House marked the beginning of significant changes in the federal government. Even now, many issues from his first year are unresolved, leaving federal employees and agencies in a state of uncertainty.
So far, his administration has reduced the federal workforce by hundreds of thousands. However, many questions remain about what the civil service will look like moving forward. Funding and the potential for another government shutdown are pressing concerns for employees who are still recovering from delayed paychecks earlier this year.
As we approach 2026, here are some key issues to keep an eye on:
Government Shutdown Risks: When Congress reconvenes, the priority will be passing the remaining budget bills for fiscal 2026. They previously approved three bills, but nine are still pending, and time is running out. Key challenges include rising healthcare costs and disagreements on funding levels.
Potential Return of Layoffs: A recent congressional vote paused layoffs until January 30, but this could change. While many federal employees left voluntarily this year, further reductions are anticipated as the administration continues to strive for a leaner workforce.
Agenda for Civil Service Changes: The controversial “Schedule F” may rise again in 2026. This rule could strip many federal employees of protections, transitioning them to at-will status. Advocates claim it will improve accountability, while critics worry it could lead to political favoritism.
Agency Restructuring: Various government agencies are undergoing structural changes. For example, the Agriculture Department is relocating employees, and the State Department is modifying its operations. These shifts could create efficiencies but also face backlash from staff concerned about job security.
Ongoing Legal Challenges: The administration is engaged in numerous lawsuits over its decisions, including efforts to limit federal workers’ rights. The outcome of these challenges could significantly impact how agencies operate and how employees are treated.
As Trump focuses on reshaping government, the fallout from these changes will influence the landscape ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. It’s essential to observe how these developments unfold, as they will affect not just federal employees but also American citizens relying on government services.
For further insight into the impacts of these changes on federal employees’ rights and workforce management, the Government Executive provides comprehensive coverage and updates.
Staying informed about these issues is key as they evolve and affect the daily workings of government agencies.
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shutdown, rifs, trump, lawsuits, reorganization, schedule f, 2026, schedule policy/career
