Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, is advocating for a more compassionate approach as the Trump administration continues to reduce the size of the federal workforce.
During an appearance on Face the Nation, Curtis defended the administration’s actions, noting that many Americans had called for such changes, particularly in response to growing national debt.
He acknowledged the significant layoffs affecting agencies like the National Park Service and the CDC, calling it unsurprising given President Trump’s campaign promises.
Curtis argued that scrutinizing government spending is a necessary step for any responsible executive. However, he also emphasized the need for dignity and compassion in the process, particularly when it comes to the impact on federal workers, many of whom have lost their jobs or been asked to demonstrate productivity, even amid ongoing remote work arrangements.
Curtis even urged tech mogul Elon Musk, who has advised President Trump on this issue, to infuse some compassion into the policy decisions.
The controversial email sent to federal employees, which asked them to list their accomplishments or face the risk of resignation, has drawn criticism. Curtis acknowledged that remote workers should be held accountable but called for a balance between efficiency and empathy in handling these cuts.
This issue is not just about government efficiency, according to Curtis, but about the human lives and real-world challenges that come with the decision to lay off thousands of public servants.
The broader conversation reflects the tension between fiscal responsibility and the welfare of government employees.