Judge Lifts Hold on Federal Worker Buyout Plan, Giving Trump a Win
A U.S. judge has removed a temporary block on a controversial federal employee buyout plan, marking a victory for President Donald Trump in his push to downsize the government workforce.
U.S. District Judge George O’Toole had previously paused the initiative but lifted the restraining order on Wednesday, allowing the program to move forward.
The plan, spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk, offers federal workers an incentive to voluntarily leave their positions, with an option to receive eight months’ pay. Employees who decline the offer risk potential layoffs in future workforce reductions.
Despite opposition from labor unions representing government employees, the White House reports that over 65,000 workers have already accepted the buyout.
Legal Challenge Dismissed
Unions had taken legal action to block the initiative, arguing it unfairly pressured public servants into making rushed career decisions. However, Judge O’Toole ruled that the unions lacked standing to challenge the program, stating that the case fell outside his court’s jurisdiction.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents 800,000 federal workers, expressed disappointment with the ruling.
“This decision does not address whether the program is actually lawful,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “Forcing career public servants to make life-changing decisions under pressure, with limited information, is simply unacceptable.”
Musk’s Role and Government Overhaul
Musk, a key Trump ally and the driving force behind the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been implementing sweeping cost-cutting measures. His reforms have resulted in agency closures, staff reductions, and legal disputes across the country.
The Trump administration has faced multiple legal challenges over its executive actions, with critics accusing courts of overstepping their authority. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt condemned what she called “judicial activism,” arguing that blocking the president’s policies undermines the will of the voters.
Leavitt hailed the judge’s decision as “the first of many legal wins for the president.”
Meanwhile, newly appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi voiced strong support for Musk’s role in government restructuring. “Elon Musk is doing great work, and we will stand by him every step of the way,” she said.
While questions remain about the long-term impact of the buyout program, the administration is pressing ahead with its efforts to reshape the federal workforce.
