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U.S. Federal Workforce Stagnates Amid Political Appointee Surge

3/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. federal workforce, numbering 2.4 million, has stagnated despite population growth, lagging behind other nations. With approximately 4,000 political appointees, worries about merit-based hiring intensify. The Trump administration's drive for increased political influence jeopardizes the independence of civil service, echoing troubling patterns found in authoritarian governments.

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Story summary

The U.S. federal workforce, numbering 2.4 million, has stagnated despite population growth, lagging behind other nations. With approximately 4,000 political appointees, worries about merit-based hiring intensify. The Trump administration's drive for increased political influence jeopardizes the independence of civil service, echoing troubling patterns found in authoritarian governments.