Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) employees are reportedly on edge as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office. The agency, already under intense scrutiny, fears sweeping changes, mass layoffs, and a potential leadership shake-up. With Trump’s Republican Party controlling both chambers of Congress, insiders anticipate a rapid and dramatic restructuring of federal agencies, especially the FBI.
According to reports from the Washington Times, multiple sources within the FBI express growing concern over job security. Speculation is rife that FBI Director Christopher Wray could be the first casualty. Wray, who replaced James Comey after his high-profile dismissal in 2017, is rumored to be considering an early exit rather than facing a Trump-ordered termination.
“It’s a countdown for Wray,” an insider revealed. “People here don’t think he’ll stick around to get fired, especially after what happened to Comey.”
Trump has frequently criticized Wray’s leadership, particularly in relation to the bureau’s handling of January 6th investigations and its alleged role in covering up politically sensitive information. His campaign promises included holding federal agencies accountable, with the FBI being a primary target.
But the anticipated shake-up goes beyond Wray. FBI employees at the agency’s Washington, D.C., headquarters reportedly fear a “bloodbath” of dismissals. The anxiety has already led some to consider transitioning into private security roles. “People on the 7th floor are bracing for impact. There’s a lot of talk about flooding the private job market,” one source said.
Adding to the tension is Elon Musk, whom Trump has floated as a potential head of a government efficiency audit. Known for his aggressive cost-cutting measures, Musk would lead an effort to streamline federal operations and eliminate waste. An insider predicted that the FBI headquarters could be drastically reduced in size if Musk is involved. “When he’s done, you might have five people left in the building,” the source quipped.
Trump’s administration plans to introduce a Civil Service exam for federal employees, requiring them to demonstrate a strong understanding of the U.S. Constitution. This proposal, aimed at ensuring ideological alignment with foundational government principles, could result in further reductions across various agencies. Critics within the FBI and other federal departments view the exam as a potential tool for weeding out individuals considered politically opposed to Trump’s agenda.
The FBI isn’t the only agency on edge. Employees at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are similarly concerned about potential layoffs. Reports suggest that some workers are delaying major purchases, like cars or home renovations, due to job insecurity. Trump has long targeted the EPA as a prime example of bureaucratic bloat, promising to cut costs and streamline its operations.
These concerns come as federal agencies continue to navigate controversies stemming from the Biden administration. Critics accuse the current leadership of using the Justice Department, including the FBI, to pursue partisan objectives. Trump’s platform includes reining in what he sees as overreach and weaponization of government institutions.
One particularly contentious topic is the FBI’s role in investigating the January 6th Capitol incident. The bureau has charged more than 1,265 individuals in connection with the attack, and some within the agency speculate that Trump might issue pardons for those involved. This possibility has reportedly caused internal divisions, with some employees frustrated by their continued involvement in these cases.
Trump’s broader vision includes dismantling what he describes as a bloated federal bureaucracy. His administration plans to push for measures that reduce inefficiency and cut costs, marking a stark departure from the policies of the Biden-Harris administration. While some view these moves as necessary reforms, others fear they will lead to a significant loss of jobs and destabilization within critical government agencies.
As Trump’s inauguration looms, the FBI and other federal institutions are preparing for a period of uncertainty.
