The Trump administration has launched a new initiative for nearly 2 million federal civilian employees, offering them “full salary and benefits through September if they choose to resign by February 6.” Called the “deferred resignation program,” it aims to cut government spending and boost in-person work, especially in Washington, D.C., where “only about 6% of staff are currently working on-site.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the plan, saying it is meant “to save money and improve government efficiency.” Supporters believe it will modernize the federal workforce and adapt to post-pandemic realities.

Critics, however, argue the program could cause a “loss of experienced career staff and weaken essential public services.” Labor unions warn it may pressure workers to quit under the guise of choice.

The proposal has fueled nationwide debate, dividing opinion between cost-cutting and protecting public service. As one observer put it, the plan carries “potential long-term implications for the structure of federal employment.”

At its core, the controversy highlights a struggle over the future of federal work—whether modernization and savings outweigh the risk of losing veteran employees who keep the government running.