Pentagon Braces for DOGE-Led Layoffs as Probationary Employees Face Uncertainty

The Pentagon is next in line for layoffs under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as the Trump administration continues its aggressive cuts to the federal workforce. The Defense Department has reportedly sent lists of probationary employees to the White House, sparking anxiety among staff amid rumors of an 8% reduction in personnel.

Layoffs at the Pentagon: What We Know So Far

A senior defense official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has received lists of employees still within their probationary period. While the total number of expected job cuts remains unclear, NPR reports indicate that an 8% staff reduction is under discussion.

One Army employee, currently in a probationary role, described a growing sense of unease among staff. “Our leadership is being forced to justify positions just to keep people on board,” he shared.

Similarly, a Marine base worker expressed concern over the broader economic impact:

“This will be detrimental to areas that rely on military bases for employment.”

DOGE’s Mission: Efficiency or Overreach?

DOGE, led by Elon Musk, has already orchestrated layoffs in other government sectors under its spending reduction initiative. The program aims to eliminate what it calls waste, fraud, and redundancy in federal operations.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth welcomed DOGE’s involvement in the Pentagon last week, stating:

“There is waste, redundancies, and headcounts at headquarters that need to be addressed.”

DOGE echoed the sentiment, posting on X (formerly Twitter):

“Looking forward to working together to safely save taxpayer dollars and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse.”

Hegseth later responded with a phrase that has now become a rallying cry for supporters of the initiative:

“DOGE the waste; Double-Down on warriors.”

Selective Layoffs: Who Is at Risk?

The Trump administration has indicated that some federal employees may be spared if their roles are considered critical to national security. A recent case at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) saw layoff notices quickly rescinded after DOGE seemingly realized the vital role these employees played in maintaining the U.S. nuclear arsenal.

However, for Pentagon employees still on probation, no such guarantees exist. The uncertainty has fueled speculation that broader defense operations—including those that support military bases and surrounding communities—could face unintended disruptions.

The Bigger Picture: How Will This Impact National Security?

With 3.4 million military and civilian personnel and an annual budget of $850 billion, the Department of Defense (DoD) is the largest government employer. While proponents argue that trimming unnecessary expenses is necessary, critics warn that rapid, sweeping cuts could weaken operational efficiency.

For now, Pentagon employees are left waiting, watching, and wondering who will be next on DOGE’s chopping block.

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