Challenges for Federal Workers Amid Trump-Era Policies and Health Crises
Michaela, 57, was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer following an incident in May 2025. Her treatment since July 2025 has included a laminectomy, stereotactic radiation, Kisqali, and hormone therapy. Michaela's husband works for the Department of Transportation (DOT) as a federal employee. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he had been able to work remotely, but a Trump-era executive order signed on January 20, 2025, mandated all federal agencies to terminate remote work arrangements, with enforcement overseen by the Office of Personnel Management.
This policy shift contributed to significant workforce reductions at the DOT, with around 2,800 employees leaving by May 2025. The department projected a roughly 20% reduction in its workforce by December 31, 2025, amounting to over 10,000 fewer workers. More broadly, the federal government experienced substantial turnover, with the Office of Personnel Management reporting 317,000 federal departures and only 68,000 new hires.
In addition to workforce challenges, the couple faced financial hardship during a 43-day federal government shutdown beginning on October 1, 2025, as payments were delayed and medical costs increased. Concerns remained high with the risk of a second shutdown looming around January 30, 2026, due to funding lapses and pending congressional votes on continuing resolutions. These circumstances intensified worries about healthcare affordability and job stability for federal workers.
