State Department Announces Significant Workforce Reduction

The U.S. State Department has announced plans to lay off approximately 1,800 employees in the coming days. This decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that permits the Trump administration to proceed with its strategy to downsize the federal workforce. The reorganization plan, initially introduced in April by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, aims to eliminate redundant functions and offices within the department. President Donald Trump had previously issued an executive order in February directing Rubio to restructure the foreign service to ensure alignment with the administration’s foreign policy objectives.

Notification and Support for Affected Employees

Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Michael Rigas communicated with employees via email, informing them of the impending “reduction in force.” He expressed gratitude for their dedication and service, emphasizing efforts made to support those departing, including options like the Deferred Resignation Programs. Although the exact number of layoffs was not specified on Thursday, a proposal sent to Congress in May outlined plans to reduce the domestic workforce by about 1,800 employees from an estimated total of 18,000. Additionally, around 1,575 employees were expected to opt for deferred resignations.

Reorganization and Streamlining Efforts

The department’s reorganization will involve streamlining or merging more than 300 of its 734 bureaus and offices. The specific distribution of layoffs between civil service and foreign service employees remains unspecified. Once affected staff are notified, the department will focus on completing its reorganization and enhancing its diplomatic efforts.

Court Delays and Swift Implementation

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted that court interventions had delayed the implementation of these layoffs. However, she assured that the process would now proceed swiftly. Bruce emphasized the necessity of restructuring to improve efficiency and functionality within the department.