Source: They voted for Trump in 2024. Months later, his administration fired them – CNN
Summary:
Introduction
- Michael Graugnard voted for President Donald Trump in the 2024 election, believing Trump was the best candidate to improve the economy.
- Graugnard, along with thousands of other federal employees, was laid off three months into his role as an attorney advisor for the US Department of Agriculture.
Impact of Layoffs
- Graugnard was devastated by the unexpected termination, having moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, with his pregnant wife and toddler for the position.
- Many federal workers who voted for Trump found themselves unemployed shortly after the election, despite believing in Trump’s policies.
Administration’s Workforce Reduction Plan
- The layoffs are part of a plan by Trump and Elon Musk to cut spending and reduce the federal workforce.
- Thousands of probationary federal workers were laid off, top officials and watchdogs were fired, and 77,000 workers were convinced to voluntarily resign.
Reactions from Affected Employees
- Graugnard supports government efficiency but disagrees with the implementation method, though he does not regret voting for Trump.
- James Diaz, a veteran fired from the IRS, criticized the administration’s approach, suggesting it lacked critical thinking.
- Some former employees, like a worker from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, regret their vote, feeling misled by Trump’s promises.
Personal Stories and Regrets
- Ryleigh Cooper voted for Trump due to his promise to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) free, which has not been fulfilled.
- Cooper, laid off from the US Forest Service, now regrets her vote, acknowledging the personal impact of her decision.
Conclusion
- The layoffs have led to mixed reactions among former federal employees, with some maintaining support for Trump’s goals but disagreeing with the execution, while others express regret over their electoral choices.