And so, it begins – the great layoff spree of the Trump administration, because who needs that many employees at the Department of Energy, right? I mean, it’s not like we’re talking about nuclear security or anything (oh wait, we are). But hey, let’s cut those “non-essential” workers loose, because who needs experience and expertise when you have… well, I’m not quite sure what you have, but I’m sure it’ll be fine.
But seriously, the Trump administration has laid off between 1,200 and 2,000 employees at the Department of Energy, which is just a tiny fraction of the 14,000 federal workers employed by the department (and the 95,000 contractors, but who’s counting?). And, of course, this is all part of Trump’s master plan to reduce the size of the federal government, because that’s always a great idea (said no one ever). I mean, who needs regulation and oversight when you have… well, you get the idea.
And then there’s the issue of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) – because, you know, we didn’t already have enough government agencies – which seems to be calling the shots here. I mean, it’s not like we should be concerned about Elon Musk’s involvement in our government or anything (oh wait, we should). But hey, let’s just give him the keys to the kingdom and see what happens, right? I’m sure it’ll be fine. (By the way, has anyone seen my tinfoil hat? I think I left it in my other coat…)
But in all seriousness, this is some scary stuff. I mean, we’re talking about nuclear security and clean energy here, not just some minor bureaucratic reshuffling. And the fact that some of these layoffs were allegedly issued in error? Well, that’s just the cherry on top of this whole mess. So, what’s next? Will we see more layoffs and budget cuts? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – this is not going to end well.
And, as a final note, I’d like to say that if you’re one of the employees who got laid off, I’m so sorry. This is not the thank you for your service that you deserved. But hey, at least you can take comfort in the fact that you’re not alone – there are plenty of other support groups out there for you. (Just don’t expect me to join you, I’m still trying to find my tinfoil hat…)