Trump and Musk’s Actions Spark Widespread Anxiety in Washington “`
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President Trump’s frank remarks at Joint Base Andrews showed a lack of self-doubt.
“This is retaliatory,” President Trump declared to reporters, summarizing his initial two weeks in office. While referring to tariffs, this sentiment applied broadly to his actions.
Gag orders, mass firings, legally questionable actions, and compromised classified data and personnel files created widespread anxiety within the civil service. Career federal employees are increasingly concerned as Trump replaces expert professionals with political appointees. Trump’s attacks on his adversaries are escalating, and the consequences are becoming apparent, as exemplified by federal employees placed on leave for attending diversity training during his first term.
The weekend’s chaotic events left Washington insiders struggling to manage the numerous unprecedented headlines emerging from the White House, with little Republican pushback. Democrats, in the minority, attempted to formulate a response but were hampered by internal disagreements on how to effectively counter Trump’s actions. The DNC has new leadership, but this change is unlikely to significantly impact the situation. The establishment is bewildered by the sharp departure from post-World War II norms. When a veteran FBI agent urges colleagues to resist impending purges, the widespread concern is undeniable.
The weekend’s rapid series of disruptive actions overwhelmed many. Tariffs and sanctions, and even calls to privatize the Panama Canal—normally headline-grabbing events—were overshadowed. Whistleblowers reported intimidation and bullying, but it’s unclear if reporting mechanisms could handle the volume. While House Democrats were prepared to hear these accounts, their ability to effect change is limited to public criticism.
Even a helicopter crash involving an American Airlines jet became a political flashpoint, with Trump blaming diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. His supporters repeated this claim, while opponents countered with factual information about skilled workforces, but to little effect.
Returning to Washington, Trump defended his decision to appoint Elon Musk to streamline the government. “I think Elon is doing a good job. He’s a big cost-cutter,” Trump said. “He’s very much into cutting the budget of our federal government.”
Musk, known for aggressive tactics against opponents, is rapidly restructuring agencies, leaving Washington struggling to keep up. A top Treasury official who denied Musk access to a sensitive payment system was placed on leave and subsequently retired, allowing Musk’s team to gain access.
Similarly, the heads of security at USAID were placed on leave after refusing Musk access to an internal data system managing approximately $40 billion in funds. The USAID website went offline, and staff anticipate significant cuts and the potential dismantling of the agency. Musk had previously called USAID a “criminal” enterprise that needed to “die.”
Trump further exacerbated concerns by calling USAID “run by radical lunatics,” ignoring its role as the world’s largest provider of food assistance.
Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is rapidly changing the established norms of the federal workforce. This approach disregards long-standing expectations within the federal government.
Career federal employees feel their positions are insecure. Trump has shown little regard for their work, potentially giving as many as two million employees the opportunity to resign. He also hinted at loyalty tests for remaining employees, suggesting that those who do not show allegiance may face consequences.
The situation at USAID serves as a warning for other agencies. If Trump and Musk can dismantle a seemingly insignificant agency with little opposition, further actions are likely. Trump has made it clear he wants a federal workforce reflecting his values, viewing any resistance as an obstacle. With the ongoing dismantling of the professional core of the federal government, the extent of future actions remains uncertain.
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