The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has become the first major national security agency to offer buyout packages to its entire workforce, allowing employees to resign in exchange for approximately eight months’ pay and benefits. This program is part of President Trump’s initiative to downsize the federal government to align it more closely with his administration’s objectives. CIA Director John Ratcliffe pushed for the CIA’s involvement, indicating a desire to ensure that the agency’s workforce meets current national security priorities.
While the buyout offer extends to all personnel, certain roles deemed essential may face restrictions. The timing and specifics of officer departures in critical areas will remain flexible under Ratcliffe’s leadership. This move follows concerns from some Trump officials that the CIA has shifted towards analysis rather than its core covert operations, and Ratcliffe has committed to enhancing both aspects.
The announcement has stirred controversy, with some unions advising rejection of the offer amid impending layoffs across federal agencies. The “Reductions in Force” process is set to commence shortly after the deadline for accepting the buyout package, which permits employees to resign voluntarily without the obligation to continue working until their departure date. The details regarding application of this package to CIA employees remain unclear, contributing to the ongoing uncertainty within the agency.