Story perspectives

U.S. Federal Workforce Shrinks 12%, Science Sector Hits Hard

3/6/2026

Center

Trump's Budget Cuts

The U.S. federal workforce declined 12% from September 2024 to January 2026, eliminating about 386,826 jobs.
The science sector lost about 95,000 positions (11.9%), with the National Institutes of Health and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration facing significant funding cuts, including a 23% drop in scientific research contracts.
Critics say these reductions jeopardize vital research and development.
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump proposing budget cuts, Congress largely maintained funding levels for science programs.

Right

Trump's Workforce Reduction

President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reduced the federal workforce by 12% from September 2024 to January 2026, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Most workforce departures were voluntary, as emphasized by OPM Director Scott Kupor.
The White House stated this reduction aims to save taxpayers $29 billion annually.
Trump established DOGE on his first day in office, implementing a hiring freeze and a plan to limit new hires to one for every four departures.

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Trump's Budget Cuts

The U.S. federal workforce declined 12% from September 2024 to January 2026, eliminating about 386,826 jobs.
The science sector lost about 95,000 positions (11.9%), with the National Institutes of Health and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration facing significant funding cuts, including a 23% drop in scientific research contracts.
Critics say these reductions jeopardize vital research and development.
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump proposing budget cuts, Congress largely maintained funding levels for science programs.

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