Trump Signs Executive Order Changing Federal Employee Classification

On June 4, 2026, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that reclassifies approximately 8,000 federal positions into a new category called 'Schedule Policy/Career.' This change allows for easier removal of senior federal employees, which has drawn criticism from federal worker unions. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) stated that the order undermines protections against political retaliation for career workers. AFGE National President Everett Kelley expressed concerns that the changes could deter whistleblowers from reporting misconduct within federal agencies. The White House, however, argues that the order aims to enhance accountability among senior officials responsible for federal policy. According to the White House, employees in this new classification can be dismissed more easily for reasons such as poor performance or misconduct, while still retaining certain protections associated with career civil service jobs. The policy primarily impacts high-ranking career officials, with about 97% of affected employees holding GS-15 positions or equivalent.