Why does Trump want government workers to quit?

Jan 29, 2025

Donald Trump's push for federal employee resignations sparks curiosity about potential workforce changes. The youngest White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, makes her debut, promising a fresh perspective in press briefings. Discussions reveal a mix of lighthearted banter and serious concerns about job security and government restructuring. The hosts draw interesting parallels between Trump's approaches and other business leaders, hinting at the evolving landscape of US politics and media engagement.

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ANECDOTE

Trump on Air Force One

Anthony Zurcher spoke to Donald Trump multiple times on Air Force One.
They discussed topics ranging from Trump's relationship with Keir Starmer to the color scheme of Air Force One.

ANECDOTE

Leavitt's First Briefing

Sarah Smith attended Karoline Leavitt's first White House press briefing.
Leavitt, the youngest White House press secretary, answered tough questions and discussed briefing room changes.

INSIGHT

Federal Workers' Fork in the Road

Federal workers received an email offering a resignation package with 8 months of pay.
This offer is perceived as a threat to those who don't align with the Trump administration's goals.

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Donald Trump's plans to reshape the federal government have gathered pace after almost all federal employees received an email on Tuesday offering the option to resign and receive pay for eight months. How many workers will take up the offer and what happens to those that don't?

And, Karoline Leavitt has made history as the youngest White House press secretary at the age of 27. Sarah was at her first briefing in which she announced changes to how the briefing room will operate and sparred with reporters on a number of issues.

HOSTS: * Sarah Smith, North America Editor * Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Correspondent * Anthony Zurcher, North America Correspondent

GET IN TOUCH: * Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB * Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480 * Email Americast@bbc.co.uk * Or use #Americast

This episode was made by George Dabby with Catherine Fusillo and Claire Betzer. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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