Reviewing what the Trump presidency could mean for federal workers and their benefits. Will Trump White House attempt to reform civil service with Schedule F, making it easier to fire employees?
Understanding Implications for Federal Employees in a Second Trump Administration
How Will Trump Presidency Influence the Federal Workforce?
When Donald Trump returns to the White House, the results will be unpredictable. For feds, one of the most impactful items could be the revival of Schedule F, despite OPM’s new rules that were put in place to protect federal employees. Some federal agencies might be more vulnerable than others when it comes to job or benefit cuts, including the EPA and the Department of Education. This article will also look at how Project 2025 could reshape the landscape of the federal government and what else a 2nd Trump White House could mean related to federal benefits.
Comparing Trump Administration Policies with the Biden Administration
The Biden administration has taken steps to reverse many of the policies implemented during Trump’s first term, including rescinding the executive order that established Schedule F. President Biden has emphasized the importance of protecting federal jobs and maintaining a non-partisan federal workforce. In contrast, Trump and his allies have argued that such protections can hinder effective governance. The differing approaches highlight the ongoing debate over the role of the federal employees and the balance between political accountability and job security.
Here are the 4 annual pay raises for federal employees, enacted by both presidents:
| Trump | Biden | |
| First Federal Pay Raise | 1.4% (2018) | 2.7% (2022) |
| Second Annual Pay Raise | 1.9% (2019)* | 4.6% (2023) |
| Third Federal Salary Increase | 3.1% (2020) | 5.2% (2024) |
| Fourth Pay Raise for Federal Employees | 1.0% (2021) | 2.0% (2025)** |
*2019 was initially a pay freeze (0%) before longest government shutdown in US history. Congress established 1.9% raise in February 2019 and it was made retroactively effective January 1, 2019.
**the 2025 Federal Pay Raise is still technically not finalized, but there’s little reason to believe Biden will change the figure now.
What Federal Workers Should Expect with Trump Winning Presidential Election
Federal workers should prepare for potential changes when Trump is sworn in as president. The reintroduction of Schedule F could lead to increased uncertainty and anxiety amongst federal agencies, particularly those in positions that could be reclassified. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and other unions are likely to oppose such moves, advocating for the protection of employee rights.
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What is Schedule F and How Does it Affect Federal Employees?
Defining Schedule F in the Context of Civil Service
Schedule F was introduced by an executive order during the final months of the Trump administration, aiming to reclassify certain federal positions. This classification targets roles involved in policy-making and policy implementation, effectively removing them from the traditional civil service protections. The intention behind Schedule F was to allow for more flexibility in hiring and firing, thus enabling the administration to align the workforce more closely with its policy goals. This reclassification could potentially affect thousands of federal employees, altering the dynamics of federal employment.
Impact on Federal Workforce and Civil Service Protections
The introduction of Schedule F raised concerns about the erosion of civil service protections. Traditionally, federal employees have enjoyed a level of job security based on a merit system, designed to protect them from political influences. However, Schedule F could make it easier to fire federal employees, thereby politicizing the civil service. This shift could undermine the merit-based system that has long been a cornerstone of federal employment, leading to a workforce more susceptible to political pressures and less focused on serving the American people impartially.
OPM Rule to Guard Federal Workers from Schedule F
Back in April of this year, OPM added a rule to the federal register that banned future executive branches from reviving Schedule F and policies that resemble it. The move was praised by governance advocacy groups for feds, noting it put it protections for the 2.2 million civilian employees of the US government. However, before winning the election, the 45th and soon to be 47th president vowed to bring it back at one of his rallies. All that being said, it remains unclear how any of this will play out during his second tenure as president.
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Opinions from the Heritage Foundation and Other Think Tanks
Think tanks such as the Heritage Foundation have expressed support for Schedule F, arguing that it could lead to a more accountable and responsive federal workforce. Proponents of the policy argue that the current civil service system is overly bureaucratic and resistant to change, hindering effective governance. However, critics contend that the risks of politicizing those serving the public outweigh any potential benefits. The debate over Schedule F reflects broader discussions about the role of the federal jobs and the balance between political influence and the independence of public servants.
Knowledge is Confidence!
What Could Project 2025 Mean for Federal Employees?
Understanding the Playbook for Another Trump Administration
Project 2025 represents a strategic plan for a potential second Trump administration, outlining policy priorities and objectives. The project includes a focus on reshaping the federal workforce, with Schedule F playing a central role. Although Trump tried to distance himself from the plan during the election, the implementation of this plan would have significant implications for both political appointees and career feds. Political appointees may find themselves with increased authority and influence, as the administration seeks to align the federal workforce with its policy objectives. Conversely, career public servants may face increased uncertainty and pressure, as the reclassification of positions under Schedule F could lead to a more politicized work environment. The potential impact on morale and job security could be profound, affecting the ability of federal agencies to effectively serve the public.
How Project 2025 Could Reshape the Federal Workforce
Project 2025 has the potential to fundamentally reshape the federal workforce, with significant implications for federal employees, including the reduction or elimination of some agencies. The focus on reclassifying positions and increasing political influence could lead to a more transient and less experienced workforce. This shift could impact the efficiency and effectiveness of federal agencies, as well as the ability of civil servants to carry out their missions.
Reach Out to Us!
If you have additional federal benefit questions, contact our team of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) and Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultants (ChFEBC℠). At PlanWell, we are federal employee financial advisors with a focus on retirement planning. Learn more about our process designed for the career fed.
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