In a bold and controversial move, former President Donald Trump is setting his sights on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with intentions to dismiss approximately 100 employees in Chicago as part of a larger effort to reform the agency. On February 3, 2025, Trump voiced his plans during a rally, expressing a desire to ‘clean house’ at the EPA. He accused the agency of ‘overreach’ and ‘inefficiency’, claiming it has strayed from its core mission to protect the environment and public health. ‘It’s time to let go of the dead weight and focus on getting results,’ Trump stated, referring to the agency’s workforce. This threat of mass dismissal has sent ripples of anxiety through the environmental community and among federal employees affected. Additionally, Trump has proposed that EPA employees who do not align with his policy vision should be prepared for immediate termination, echoing similar sentiments reported by the New York Times and NBC News regarding his administration’s hardline approach towards federal agencies. On the same day, New York Congressman Lee Zeldin supported Trump’s initiative, arguing that the EPA has failed the American people. Zeldin emphasized, ‘We need leaders in the EPA who understand the importance of balancing environmental stewardship with economic growth.’ This announcement raises concerns not only about the future of environmental regulations but also about the potential impacts on local economies reliant on environmental safeguards. The fate of the remaining EPA employees hangs in the balance as Trump solidifies his campaign rhetoric ahead of the election cycle, leaving many uncertain about the future and operational capabilities of the EPA.
Former President Trump Threatens to Dismiss EPA Employees Amid Restructuring Plans
