US President Donald Trump’s buyout offer has led to over 40,000 federal employees resigning. The initiative aims to cut unnecessary expenses and streamline operations across various departments.

Under the buyout plan, employees who voluntarily resign will receive their salaries until September, along with additional benefits. Initially, the CIA was excluded from the offer, but it has now been included, extending the opportunity to its employees as well. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent mail to nearly 200,000 employees, urging them to decide by February 6. Those who decline the offer risk potential layoffs.

Around 40,000 employees, approximately 2% of the total US federal workforce, have accepted the buyout. While Trump’s team had anticipated up to 200,000 employees opting for the package, the current response is seen as a step toward reducing government expenditure. However, critics argue that even this small percentage could negatively impact governance and the economy.

The buyout offer has faced strong opposition from US federal employee unions, which are urging workers to reject it. Unions have raised legal concerns and filed a petition in a Massachusetts district court to temporarily halt the initiative. They argue that the buyout could destabilize the workforce and affect public services.