State Department Begins Major Layoffs
On Thursday, the State Department informed its staff about the initiation of significant layoffs, as revealed by obtained notifications.
The Supreme Court has permitted President Donald Trump to proceed with his executive order. In a ruling from Tuesday, the agency was directed to prepare for substantial workforce reductions. Preparations for reorganizing to close 132 offices had already begun in April. Deputy Chief Michael Rigas informed officials on Thursday that “power reductions” would be implemented shortly, according to internal documents.
“Once the notification is delivered, the department enters the final phases of the reorganization, focusing on outcome-driven diplomacy,” Rigas noted.
As the situation regarding layoffs develops, it was reported that the plan could be in place as soon as Friday.
As part of the restructuring, offices deemed redundant and those not aligned with President Trump’s objectives will be eliminated. A senior State Department official had conveyed earlier that 137 offices would be relocated within the department to enhance efficiency.
In the upcoming weeks, the secretary will reach out to what is termed the “family organization” and hold “City Hall” meetings, according to the memo.
Rigas expressed gratitude on behalf of departmental leadership for the efforts in executing this reorganization and for ongoing dedication to promoting U.S. national interests globally.
A senior State Department official commented on the announcement, stating, “At President Trump’s direction, Secretary Rubio has initiated a historic reorganization of the State Department, thoughtfully executed by the department’s leadership. This restructuring will better serve the American people.”
In a related action, the Department of State has also terminated a long-standing program that provided benefits and funds to diplomats being phased out, as indicated in a memo obtained earlier. This pension exception allowed foreign service members to stay on the department’s payroll.
