Fri Feb 07 00:55:48 UTC 2025: ## Judge Halts Trump’s Plan to Incentivize Federal Worker Resignations

**Washington, D.C. –** A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order on Thursday, halting President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to incentivize the resignation of thousands of federal employees. The program, orchestrated by Trump advisor Elon Musk, offered a deferred resignation package with continued pay until September 30th.

The ruling, handed down by U.S. District Judge George O’Toole Jr. in Boston, came hours before the initial application deadline. The judge cited concerns raised by labor unions who argued the plan was illegal. A hearing is scheduled for Monday to address these concerns, and the deadline for applying has been extended until then.

Despite the court order, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt claims 40,000 workers have already signed up for the program. Leavitt’s comments, which described remote workers as “lazy” and accused them of “ripping off the American people,” have been met with outrage from federal employees and unions alike.

Federal workers, speaking anonymously out of fear of retaliation, expressed deep concern over the plan’s legality and the demoralizing rhetoric from the Trump administration. While some employees chose to resign despite the temporary halt, others remain hesitant, citing concerns about the program’s potential lack of legality and the administration’s increasingly aggressive tactics.

The Office of Personnel Management, central to Musk’s government downsizing efforts, sent a message to remaining employees on Wednesday warning of potential layoffs and furloughs, demanding “loyalty” and “enhanced standards of suitability and conduct.” The message also warned of increased scrutiny for any perceived misconduct.

Critics, including Democrats and union leaders such as Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, have condemned the plan as a “scam,” arguing it lacks Congressional authorization and could leave participating employees unpaid.

The program, part of Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative led by Musk, has sparked protests outside federal buildings. Many federal workers express fear for their job security and worry about the long-term impact on vital public services. The administration’s assurances have done little to alleviate these concerns.

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