Capping a whirlwind political journey, President-elect Donald Trump has made history once more by regaining the presidency in the 2024 election.
Trump's return to power marks the first instance since 1892 of a U.S. president winning back the White House after a failed reelection bid, sparking concerns -- and potential departures -- within the federal workforce, including at agencies such as the FBI, as Breitbart reports.
Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, in a closely watched contest. The Republican's comeback signifies a remarkable political rebound, being the first such occurrence since Grover Cleveland's non-consecutive terms in the late 19th century. This victory has prompted a flurry of reactions throughout a range of federal agencies.
Speculation is rife among key figures within federal agencies, particularly the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), about their future roles under Trump's renewed leadership. The anticipation stems from Trump’s previously outlined plans to reinstate a controversial policy from his earlier administration that could impact federal employment.
In March 2023, Trump announced his commitment to bring back Schedule F, a classification aimed at streamlining the dismissal of federal workers. This move was originally implemented in 2020 but later revoked by President Joe Biden in early 2021, who followed up with measures to strengthen protections for federal employees.
Amid this backdrop, some federal officials fear for their positions. According to Blaze News, there is talk of departures among DOJ and FBI personnel concerned about Trump’s agenda.
Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for the Trump campaign, highlighted the public’s support for potential changes, stating that Trump’s victory showcased a mandate to dismantle what he calls the "weaponization" of the justice system. Trump has vowed to be an agent of change for those wronged under previous administrations, further fueling uncertainty among federal staff.
Steve Baker, offering insights into the DOJ, suggested that discussions are already underway among attorneys regarding possible exits. He asserted that some are viewing this as an opportunity to transition into private sector roles, seeking "golden parachutes" from influential law firms.
In Trump’s own words during a speech, he declared his mission as both a leader and avenger for Americans who feel betrayed by previous governmental actions. Such statements have heightened anxieties within the DOJ and FBI about potential future scrutiny or upheavals.
The political landscape is further complicated by special counsel Jack Smith’s efforts to wrap up federal cases involving Trump. Smith's actions, including requesting a halt in proceedings in the DOJ's election interference case, underscore the heightened tension and possible upheavals surrounding Trump's return.
Meanwhile, Trump has made no secret of his intentions to dismiss Smith if he assumes the presidency in January. This move is anticipated by some supporters who perceive Smith's actions as politically motivated.
Despite the tumult, Trump is poised to begin his upcoming term with a determined agenda. His platform includes addressing alleged injustices and reorganizing federal operations, a prospect that stirs both hope and apprehension in the nation.
The culmination of these factors underscores the enormity of Trump's electoral victory on the federal landscape. By reclaiming the presidency, he not only reshapes American politics but also sets in motion a series of potential changes that could redefine the federal bureaucracy for years to come. The coming weeks and months are likely to witness significant transitions within national institutions as Trump prepares to step back into the Oval Office.
