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Pentagon Cuts 78,000 Civilians Without Impact Analysis, GAO Says

5/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Government Accountability Office (GAO) found the Pentagon had no plan to assess how cutting 78,000 civilian positions would affect readiness, workload, or lethality.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a hiring freeze as the Pentagon cut 78,000 civilian jobs in 2025, without the legally required impact analysis.
Pentagon spokesperson said the department acknowledges the GAO’s recommendations and is evaluating the findings.

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Story summary

Government Accountability Office (GAO) found the Pentagon had no plan to assess how cutting 78,000 civilian positions would affect readiness, workload, or lethality.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a hiring freeze as the Pentagon cut 78,000 civilian jobs in 2025, without the legally required impact analysis.
Pentagon spokesperson said the department acknowledges the GAO’s recommendations and is evaluating the findings.