The Trump administration has unveiled a new initiative called the “deferred resignation program,” aimed at reducing the size and cost of the federal workforce. The program offers full pay and benefits through September to nearly 2 million civilian employees who agree to resign by February 6. Officials describe the move as a voluntary buyout designed to encourage efficiency and a stronger return to in-person work, as only about 6% of federal employees in Washington, D.C. currently report on-site.

According to the administration, the program is not politically motivated but rather a practical response to what they view as declining productivity in remote positions. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected allegations of a political purge, stating that the goal is to “modernize government operations and ensure taxpayers receive full value for their investment in public service.” The administration believes the plan could help streamline bureaucracy and create a more accountable, performance-driven environment.

Supporters have praised the policy as a long-overdue reform, arguing that it provides a dignified exit option for employees resistant to returning to office work. They say it clears the way for new hires who are more adaptable to evolving workplace expectations. Some policy analysts also suggest it could save billions in the long run by reducing administrative redundancy and underused federal office space.

However, critics — including labor unions and public employee advocates — warn that the program could hollow out vital government services. They fear that offering buyouts might drive away seasoned professionals whose experience is crucial to maintaining stability and effectiveness in federal operations. As the debate continues, the “deferred resignation program” has become a flashpoint in the broader national conversation about efficiency, workforce morale, and the evolving role of public service in a post-pandemic America.