Seeking a federal job? You may now be required to write about the merits of Trump’s policies
You might have thought that your skills and personality were enough, but new questions could test your loyalty to the plan.
Honesty, transparency, integrity. Surely three character traits that a boss would look for, or demand, from a new employee. But that may not be the case if applying for a federal job in the weeks, months and years ahead.
Your qualifications and personality appear to be sliding down the list of priorities. Under a new hiring overhaul quietly rolled out by the Trump administration, applicants for certain government roles could be asked to write essays defending the president’s policies, something critics say amounts to a political loyalty test. And, therefore, if you want the job but don’t agree with POTUS’ actions, you’ll probably have to lie.
What is the new Trump ‘loyalty’ policy?
The policy is part of a broader plan from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to fast-track the hiring process for a newly revived category of federal workers known as “Schedule F.” This classification, first introduced by Trump in 2020 and repealed by President Biden, allows agencies to hire senior policy-influencing staff outside traditional civil service protections. These workers can be dismissed more easily – and now, potentially hired based on their political views.
“OPM is committed to creating a federal workforce that reflects the highest standards of merit and service,” was the announcement from Acting Director " at the end of May 2025. “This plan ensures we hire based on talent, dedication, and constitutional principles, delivering a government that works effectively for all Americans.”
It has been said to be a way to “enhance accountability,” enabling agencies to build teams aligned with the administration’s priorities. But the hiring guidance goes further: it explicitly allows essay-style questions in job applications, asking candidates to demonstrate knowledge of and support for administration policies. Some postings have already begun requiring responses like,“What are the benefits of restoring energy independence through American fossil fuel production?”
Federal employee unions and watchdog groups argue the move threatens the neutrality of the civil service. “This is not about efficiency. It’s about loyalty,” said one union official. Others fear it could open the door to large-scale purges of nonpartisan staff... or, of course, a lot of dishonest new arrivals.
The Trump White House has dismissed such concerns, insisting the reforms will “drain the swamp” and return decision-making to those who support the president’s agenda. Make Americans Give Allegiance.
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