Trump Targets Federal Employee Unions with New Executive Order

President Donald Trump has intensified his efforts against union rights for federal employees by issuing an executive order that affects several key government agencies. This move, coinciding with the approach of Labor Day, aims to end collective bargaining for workers at agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Weather Service.

The executive order, released on August 31, 2023, builds on a previous directive from March that sought to remove collective bargaining rights from hundreds of thousands of federal employees. Although a federal judge initially blocked this earlier order, a panel from the US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit allowed the Trump administration to move forward. In the current climate, the panel is set to determine whether the full court will re-examine the case.

As litigation continues, some agencies have begun to terminate collective bargaining agreements, despite directions to refrain from such actions. Government Executive reported that federal agencies are navigating this legal gray area, further complicating the situation for federal workers.

Reactions from Union Leaders

Union representatives have expressed strong opposition to the latest executive order. Matt Biggs, national president of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, criticized the administration’s targeting of NASA, suggesting it was a retaliatory action against unions challenging previous orders. “It’s not surprising, sadly,” he stated. “What is surprising is that on the eve of Labor Day weekend, the Trump administration has doubled down on being the most anti-labor, anti-worker administration in US history.”

Everett Kelley, national president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), echoed similar sentiments, characterizing the executive order as a clear retaliation against union members. He emphasized the implications of stripping union rights from a significant portion of the federal workforce, which includes many veterans. Kelley remarked, “This latest executive order is another clear example of retaliation against federal employee union members who have bravely stood up against his anti-worker, anti-American plan to dismantle the federal government.”

Kelley further criticized the administration’s approach, particularly the actions of the Department of Government Efficiency, calling them reckless and detrimental to the remaining federal workforce.

Potential Impact on Federal Workforce

If Trump’s latest executive order withstands the ongoing legal challenges, it could lead to two-thirds of the federal workforce losing their union rights. This alarming potential outcome raises concerns about the rights and protections for federal employees amid a shifting political landscape.

The executive order references the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, which has been a cornerstone for federal employee rights. As the legal battle unfolds, union leaders vow to continue fighting for the rights of their members through various channels, including the courts and grassroots advocacy.

As Labor Day approaches, the implications of Trump’s actions are becoming increasingly significant for federal employees and their unions. While the administration positions its actions as enhancing national security, many union leaders view them as an assault on workers’ rights and a further erosion of federal employee protections.