The Trump administration has paid over 154,000 federal employees not to work under its deferred resignation program, resulting in costs of at least $21.7 billion, according to Senate investigations. Critics argue that the program is wasteful as workers continue to receive paychecks despite being on leave for months. Experts say this approach is unprecedented and expensive, with many workers taking extended periods off due to layoffs or litigation. While some employees see it as a blessing in disguise, others struggle with the loss of identity and fulfillment after years of service.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/07/31/federal-workers-doge-buyout-paid