A Message to My Friends in the Federal Civil Service Workforce
This past August, I had the privilege of retiring from the government after 33 years of service. Over that time, I worked through six administration transitions. While some of those times gave me angst, if I’m being honest, it was mostly because my candidate of choice didn’t win in a particular year. However, at the end of the day, all was generally well. I (and we…my fellow civil servants) carried on doing our jobs.
During those transitions, I never feared for my job. I was never asked to do something that was questionable or illegal. I was never questioned as to my loyalty. I took my oath of office multiple times with each new position I entered.
“I, Michael Widomski, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.”
Over the past month, I've spoken with many friends in the civil service still working—dedicated, hard-working public servants who keep our government running smoothly. I hear the anxiety in your voices, I read the angst in your e-mails or texts, I see them on your social media posts, and I see, read, and hear how others will go on and denigrate you simply for being a faithful public servant. There is much uncertainty in these unprecedented times, and I want to take a moment to acknowledge the weight of what you're carrying right now. It cannot be easy.
We’re living in a time when challenges seem to be coming from every direction. The administration's recent executive orders and policy changes have sparked numerous legal battles. For instance, the executive order titled "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship," which seeks to end birthright citizenship, has been challenged in multiple lawsuits.
Additionally, the administration's decision to restructure the federal workforce and freeze federal aid has faced legal opposition.
In these challenging times, organizations like Democracy Forward are stepping up to defend our democratic institutions. This nonprofit and others have been instrumental in challenging executive actions that threaten the integrity of our civil service. They've filed lawsuits to block attempts to politicize the civil service and to prevent the unlawful shutdown of agencies like USAID.
Their efforts ensure that our government remains accountable and that the rights of federal employees are protected.
I urge you to hold onto hope. The courts are actively reviewing these policies, and their decisions will help ensure our Constitution is upheld. Just as we’ve done before, we must believe that we will weather this storm together. The resilience of our nation has always been in its people—and you, the federal civil service workforce, are the backbone that upholds our country’s strength.
You are the ones who make sure that our government remains functional, accountable, and just. The work you do—whether seen or unseen—makes a tangible difference in the lives of everyday Americans. Every day you show up, you protect and preserve the values upon which this nation was built.
Though the path ahead may seem unclear, I have every confidence that we will come through this stronger than ever. Civil servants have faced adversity in the past, and you will continue to rise to the occasion. Your dedication, your commitment, and your unwavering service to public good are what make our government, and our nation, truly great.
I know that you are being seen, you are valued, and your efforts matter. In these uncertain times, your contributions are more important than ever. Let us navigate these challenges together with hope, strength, and the belief that we will emerge from this period united and more resilient than before.
Stay hopeful, stay strong, and never forget the crucial role you play in the continued success of our nation. You are the foundation on which this great country stands, and for that, we are all grateful.
To stay up to date on some of the fights going on in the courts that are seeking to protect you, I encourage you to follow www.civilservicestrong.org. Civile Service Strong is made up of dedicated people, organizations, and communities across the country who are joining together to ensure our civil servants have resources if they are targeted or attacked. Alongside the 95% of people who believe civil servants should be hired and promoted based on their merit rather than their political beliefs, members of Civil Service Strong are committed to supporting a career, non-partisan civil service and the people who power it.
With appreciation,
Michael Widomski
