Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) employees are reportedly anxious about potential large-scale layoffs following President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration.

Surrounded by family members and supporters, Donald Trump makes his acceptance speech at his Election Night Watch Party at the Palm Beach County Convention Center after being elected the 47th President of the United States November 5, 2024.

Concerns are mounting that Trump, with Republican control of both the Senate and House, will move quickly to overhaul federal agencies, particularly the FBI, where Director Christopher Wray and other top officials are rumored to be on the chopping block.

According to the Washington Times, several sources within the FBI have expressed worry about job security and potential restructuring under the new administration.

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One source noted that Wray, who succeeded James Comey, might leave his position rather than wait for a dismissal. “It’s a countdown for Wray because [people here] don’t think he will stay to get fired after what Trump did to Comey,” said an insider.

Trump has criticized Wray’s leadership, particularly over issues related to the handling of January 6th cases and the bureau’s alleged role in concealing sensitive information.

Beyond the director, employees at FBI headquarters are also reportedly bracing for significant changes. “Others on the 7th floor of the FBI are so concerned about their own jobs that they are likely to flood the Washington, D.C., private security job market,” according to the report, indicating a pervasive sense of job insecurity.

The source added that many employees expect Trump to enact a “bloodbath” of dismissals and restructuring within the bureau.

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Another notable concern centers around Elon Musk, whom Trump has suggested as a possible leader for a government efficiency audit.

Oct 5, 2024; Butler, PA, USA; Elon Musk joins former President Donald Trump on stage as Trump speaks at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., on October 5, 2024. On July 13, 2024, a gunman fired eight rounds at the former president and Republican presidential nominee during a rally in Butler. Trump was grazed by a bullet in the attack, and Pennsylvania firefighter Corey Comperatore was killed as he tried to shield his family from the attack. Two other men were injured.. Mandatory Credit: Jasper Colt-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

During his campaign, Trump pledged to establish a commission to cut waste across federal agencies, and Musk, known for his business efficiency measures, was floated as a potential head of this effort.

An FBI insider remarked that this audit could drastically reduce staffing at headquarters, where waste and inefficiency are reportedly prevalent. “When he tries to do efficiency at headquarters, the place is going to have five people … if he’s talking about a lot of dead weight,” said the source, suggesting that a streamlined workforce might result in fewer employees.

Trump’s campaign platform included a commitment to reducing the federal bureaucracy, which he described as “bloated” and inefficient.

His plans also proposed requiring all federal employees to pass a Civil Service exam demonstrating knowledge of the U.S. Constitution—a measure aimed at ensuring that employees align with the foundational principles of government.

Many believe this requirement could further reduce staffing, particularly in agencies criticized for overreach or partisanship.

The FBI has faced considerable scrutiny over its handling of cases related to the January 6th Capitol incident, with over 1,265 individuals charged in connection with the events.

The report suggests that some FBI employees, frustrated with their involvement in January 6th investigations, speculated that Trump might pardon individuals involved in these cases.

The anxieties extend beyond the FBI. Federal employees in other agencies, particularly the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), are also reportedly worried about potential cuts.

Reports indicate that some EPA employees have put off major purchases, such as new cars or home improvements, over concerns about job security.

Trump has publicly discussed targeting waste in departments like the EPA, as part of broader efforts to eliminate what he views as unnecessary government spending.

Trump’s proposed initiatives mark a stark contrast to the approach of the Biden-Harris administration, which has been accused by critics of using the Justice Department and other agencies for partisan purposes.

With Trump’s inauguration set for January 20th, these agencies are preparing for potential sweeping reforms that could redefine federal employment policies and streamline government functions.

As federal agencies brace for Trump’s return to office, both the FBI and other government departments are likely to see significant shifts in policy, personnel, and operations.