Hochul Extends Job Offer to Federal Workers Displaced by Trump Administration Actions
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a direct invitation to federal employees who have been terminated or placed on administrative leave under the Trump administration to seek employment in New York State. Hochul’s appeal comes amidst reports of widespread layoffs and buyouts within the federal government, prompting concerns about the loss of experienced public servants.
In an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer on "The Situation Room," Governor Hochul emphasized the value New York State places on public service and highlighted the availability of numerous positions. "We have 7,000 openings in the state of New York, and we value public service," Hochul stated. "Public servants take care of our people. That’s what it’s all about. So, come on board. We’ll hire you."
Hochul’s offer is a response to the Trump administration’s actions, which have reportedly led to the layoff or administrative leave of approximately 25,000 federal workers. Additionally, estimates suggest that 75,000 employees have accepted deferred buyouts, further reducing the size of the federal workforce.
The article highlighted the emotional toll these job losses are having on affected employees. The article mentioned a situation where former USAID employees were seen leaving their building with belongings after mass layoffs.
Reports have also surfaced of federal workers across various agencies receiving requests from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to document their weekly accomplishments. According to the article, the emails ask employees to reply with approximately five bullets describing what they accomplished last week and cc their manager. For those handling sensitive information, they are asked to specify that their activities are sensitive.
Hochul expressed dismay at the situation, describing it as "absolutely devastating." She recounted a meeting with a group of recently terminated employees, some of whom were reportedly on the verge of tears. "I gathered about 10 people who unceremoniously were dumped, some of them on Valentine’s Day, people that were working to fight consumer fraud, making sure that the huge corporations that are trying to evade taxes have to pay, people to take care of our veterans, people who are making us safe. All of them were just dumped."
The governor also mentioned the placement of recruitment pamphlets at Washington, D.C.’s Union Station, a major transportation hub. The pamphlets feature the meme character "Doge" and the message "’You’re fired?’ We say, ‘You’re hired.’ New York wants you!" These pamphlets symbolize New York’s eagerness to welcome displaced federal workers into its workforce.
Hochul directly criticized the Trump administration’s approach, stating, "I know the Trump administration doesn’t have regard for them."
Hochul continued to extol the virtues of federal workers, emphasizing the "highly valuable" nature of their work and reiterating New York’s commitment to hiring them. This targeted recruitment effort aims to capitalize on the skills and experience of federal employees who may be seeking new opportunities due to the Trump administration’s policies.
The current moves being made by federal workers could be attributed to a change in presidential leadership, which can result in changes to an administration’s priorities, budget allocations, and personnel decisions. Some federal workers may be laid off due to budget cuts, agency restructuring, or policy shifts implemented by the new administration. It is possible that some of these jobs could be considered to be superfluous.
In the case of the previous administration, there were efforts to reduce the size and scope of the federal government, which could lead to layoffs, hiring freezes, or the elimination of certain positions. Federal workers may be put on administrative leave or asked to complete administrative tasks so that they have an opportunity to find employment, before their positions are eliminated entirely. The fact that these administrative emails are time sensetive, may cause stress among Federal workers.
Governor Hochul’s initiative presents a potential lifeline for federal workers facing job insecurity, offering them a chance to continue their careers in public service within the state of New York. In addition, the people of New York State, and those who visit it, may benefit from the skills and experiences of these former Federal workers.
The governor’s actions highlight a growing divide between some state governments and the federal government regarding the value and role of public employees. While the Trump administration appears to be downsizing the federal workforce, Hochul’s New York is actively seeking to expand its ranks with experienced professionals.
