Editor's note: This story is posted with permission from the anonymous federal employee who shared it with us. Some edits were made for length and clarity.
For the first time in my more than 30 year career, I find myself unemployed. Most recently, I led a federal agency as an appointee under the prior administration. After the 2024 election, my job ended on January 20, 2025. I took a trip and returned to hear concerns about federal employees being unqualified, lazy, or not showing up to work.
Unqualified staff?
This is simply not true. At my agency, I worked with highly skilled and knowledgeable staff from diverse educational backgrounds, including high school graduates, veterans, and those with degrees from prestigious universities. They were all dedicated to achieving the agency's mission.
Lazy staff?
Absolutely not. During my four years, I worked harder than ever before, alongside staff who put in long hours, weekends, and evenings to meet our goals. They were committed and hardworking.
AWOL staff?
This is a baseless claim. Remote work was necessary during the pandemic to protect lives, and as conditions improved, staff returned while maintaining high performance.
In every workplace or team, there are stars, starters, and backups. Public servants are no different. They ensure our air is clean, roads are safe, and lights work when we flip the switch. Let's appreciate their dedication rather than undermine it.