WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is utilizing a less known federal entity, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), as part of his strategy to reform the government.
This agency has made a significant offer to millions of federal employees, proposing eight months’ salary for those willing to voluntarily resign by February 6. This unique initiative reflects Trump’s goal to streamline the bureaucracy and mirrors the workforce reductions seen at companies like those led by Elon Musk, who is a notable supporter of Trump and is heading the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency.
### Understanding OPM
The OPM, established in 1979 during President Jimmy Carter’s administration, functions similarly to a human resources department for the federal government. It oversees various aspects of civil service, including salary structures, health care benefits, and pension programs. The U.S. Office of Government Ethics was separated from OPM in 1989.
As highlighted on the OPM website, the agency’s origins can be traced back to the Civil Service Act of 1883, which set the foundation for merit-based hiring among public servants, replacing a less impartial system that encouraged political favoritism. Trump’s perspective is that the current bureaucratic framework is insufficiently aligned with his policy agenda, motivating him to seek officials who will effectively execute his directives.
### Details of the OPM Offer
The offer, dubbed “Fork in the Road,” is formally termed a “deferred resignation offer.” An email was dispatched to federal workers not associated with the military, immigration enforcement, national security, or the U.S. Postal Service. Employees who opt to accept the offer will continue receiving their salaries and benefits until the end of September without any required work duties. Acceptance can be communicated by simply including “Resign” in the email subject line.
The communication also alluded to possible future workforce reductions, stating, “(W)e cannot assure you of the certainty of your position or agency, but should your position be eliminated you will be treated with dignity and will benefit from the protections afforded to such positions.”
Additionally, those who take the offer will still have the opportunity to seek federal employment in the future, according to a clarification from OPM following the initial email.
### Musk’s Involvement
Interestingly, the phrase “fork in the road” may resonate with former Twitter employees. Musk sent out a similar email titled “A Fork in the Road” after acquiring the social media platform, during which he already laid off a substantial portion of the workforce. His version was concise, giving a short deadline for decision-making, and offered three months’ severance.
Musk has remarked on social media that the OPM offer presents the most benefits permissible under the law without needing additional funding from Congress. He also noted that those who accept the package can pursue new employment opportunities, a detail not elaborated upon in OPM’s own communications. He described the offer as a “fair & generous deal.”
### A Broader Strategy
Trump’s strategy to reshape the federal bureaucracy extends beyond just OPM. The White House Office of Management and Budget recently disseminated a memo instructing government agencies to halt loans and grants, leading to widespread confusion and legal disputes over the directive’s legitimacy and reach. This order was retracted shortly after as the confusion mounted.
Additionally, Trump has tasked the General Services Administration with ensuring a promotion of “beautiful federal civic architecture,” reflecting his preference for traditional architectural styles. An administrative order also renamed the U.S. Digital Service — which deals with technology-related issues — to the Department of Government Efficiency, aligning with Trump’s initiative known as DOGE aimed at reducing government expenditures.
