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Judge Signals Possible Reinstatement of Thousands of Fired Federal Workers

A federal judge in Maryland is considering ordering the Trump administration to rehire probationary employees, citing potential violations of federal law in the mass terminations.

Elon Musk flashes his t-shirt that reads "DOGE" to the media as he walks on South Lawn of the White House, in Washington, Sunday, March 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
Protesters gather on sidewalks in front of federal buildings during a protest in support of federal workers who were recently laid off on Feb. 27, 2025, in Fort Collins, Colo.
President Donald Trump walks down the stairs after a luncheon with the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., and Ireland's Prime Minister Micheal Martin at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
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Overview

  • Approximately 200,000 probationary federal workers have been terminated under the Trump administration, with many firings citing vague 'performance' issues despite positive reviews for some employees.
  • A coalition of 20 Democratic state attorneys general has sued, arguing the terminations violated federal laws requiring 60 days' notice and career transition services for reductions in force (RIFs).
  • U.S. District Judge James Bredar expressed skepticism about the administration's claim that these were not RIFs and highlighted concerns about the legality of the firings.
  • The administration has rescinded instructions to fire probationary workers following a related California court ruling but has also directed agencies to prepare for broader workforce reductions.
  • The judge is expected to issue a written ruling soon, with the possibility of temporarily reinstating terminated employees while legal challenges proceed.