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A pulse poll by Federal News Network found that 42% of federal employees plan to stay in their jobs, while another 41% are adopting a wait-and-see approach following the election of Donald Trump. A mass exodus of employees from an organization could be extremely problematic, but despite most employees indicating they will stay, 40% believe that many or some of their colleagues will leave due to the election results. The survey also revealed that potential reduction in telework and remote working was a significant concern, with 67% of respondents predicting the new administration would limit these arrangements.
Despite the looming threat of Schedule F and other changes under Project 2025, federal workforce employees aren’t rushing to quit jobs after President Trump’s re-election. A Federal News Network poll reveals 42% of over 1,000 participants plan to stay and 41% are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach. The poll took place from Nov. 6-7.
Many respondents expressed a commitment to serving the country and the people they serve. Some noted a sense of pride and responsibility in their current positions and agencies.
While some respondents plan to retire soon, the election hasn’t altered their plans. Of the 11% thinking about leaving, reasons ranged from politics to potential cuts and layoffs.
Many expressed concerns about a significant reduction in the civil service workforce under Trump’s second-year administration.
A mass exodus would cause significant issues for agencies, hence the overall pragmatic standpoint of the respondents is positive. However, 40% anticipate some of their colleagues leaving due to the election.
Concerns over remote working and teleworking policies under the new leadership emerged from the poll. If the new administration reduces remote work, 67% of the respondents agreed this would likely happen.
Reduction in telework and remote working topped the list of concerns for many respondents. Data-driven decisions vs presentation-oriented decisions form the basis for the telework debate. If the administration assesses the data, they’ll likely maintain telework where it’s effective and proven to increase productivity.
Survey respondents expressed a lack of optimism about potential changes to their missions and budgets under the Trump administration. Over half anticipate a decrease in their budgets or missions, while just over 12% expect them to remain the same.
While employees of the Defense Department and other national security agencies are more optimistic about their future, workers at the Environmental Protection Agency or the Justice Department have more concerns.
The anticipated impact of the Trump administration on agencies varied among respondents. Some are hopeful for a ‘right-sizing’ approach, while others fear a decrease in budgets would lead to significant layoffs.
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