Elon Musk’s latest move has caused confusion across US federal agencies. Over the weekend, millions of government employees received an email asking them to list their accomplishments from the past week. This directive came from Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) task force, aiming to cut costs and improve productivity.
While some agencies advised their staff to comply, others, including the FBI, State Department, and Pentagon, instructed employees not to respond. The conflicting messages left thousands of government workers uncertain about their next steps.
The email requested employees to list five key achievements without disclosing any classified information. Musk stated on social media that failure to reply by Monday midnight would be considered a resignation. However, the official message did not mention any employment consequences for non-compliance.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) confirmed the email’s authenticity, but agencies like the Department of Justice and Homeland Security told staff to hold off on responding. Other departments, such as Transportation and Cybersecurity, encouraged compliance. The lack of clear direction has left federal workers in a state of uncertainty.
Some government unions have pushed back, calling the demand unfair and disrespectful. The American Federation of Government Employees even threatened legal action, arguing that such a request undermines workers’ rights.
The situation intensified as political leaders weighed in. Former President Donald Trump praised Musk’s efforts, encouraging a more aggressive approach to streamlining government functions. Meanwhile, Democratic leaders criticized the move, labeling it reckless and harmful to federal employees.
The response from Congress has been divided. Some Republican lawmakers supported Musk’s initiative as a way to conduct a full audit of government spending. Others, like Senator John Curtis, urged Musk to consider the human impact of such drastic measures.
As the deadline approached, many federal employees were left unsure of whether their jobs were at risk. The uncertainty has sparked debates about efficiency, government oversight, and the power of tech leaders in shaping policy. With tensions high, it remains to be seen how this bold demand will impact the future of the US government workforce.
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