Background on Key Figures and Relevant Context
Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has issued a warning that some federal workers forced to take unpaid leave during the ongoing government shutdown may not receive retroactive pay if he deems them “unworthy” of it. This statement comes after a draft memorandum from the White House suggested that 750,000 employees facing layoffs do not have guaranteed payment upon returning to work.
Who is Donald Trump?
Donald Trump, the 45th President of the United States, has been in office since January 2017. Known for his business background and reality TV fame, Trump’s presidency has been marked by controversial policies and decisions. His approach to the government shutdown reflects his negotiation tactics and willingness to use pressure as a means to achieve political goals.
Why is this relevant?
The ongoing government shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, has resulted in the furlough of approximately 380,000 federal employees and the working of another 420,000 without pay. This situation has significant implications for both federal workers and the broader economy, as these employees are unable to meet their financial obligations.
Key Points of the Memorandum
The draft memorandum from the White House argues that retroactive pay for federal employees must be explicitly approved by Congress, contradicting the 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act (GEFTA), which Trump signed during his first term. Under GEFTA, federal employees were guaranteed pay during periods of inactivity.
What is the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act (GEFTA)?
The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act (GEFTA) is a law signed by President Trump in 2019, which ensures that federal employees receive their salaries during periods of government shutdown-induced inactivity.
Trump’s Stance and Reactions
Trump has stated that he will prioritize taking care of “our people,” while expressing discretion in addressing those he deems “unworthy.” This stance has been met with criticism from some Republican lawmakers, who argue that federal employees have always been paid retroactively in past shutdowns.
Reactions from Republican Lawmakers
Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) emphasized the historical practice of paying back salaries to federal employees during and after shutdowns, predicting that this situation would not change. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) described Trump’s message as “horrible” for those essentially held hostage by Democrats responsible for the government closure.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What does the memorandum say about retroactive pay for federal employees? A: The memorandum argues that retroactive pay for federal employees must be explicitly approved by Congress, contradicting the 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act (GEFTA).
- Q: How has President Trump responded to the shutdown? A: Trump has warned that some federal workers may not receive retroactive pay if he deems them “unworthy,” and has threatened to withhold pay from thousands of furloughed employees unless Democrats concede.
- Q: What are the reactions from Republican lawmakers? A: Some Republican lawmakers, such as Senators John Kennedy and Thom Tillis, have criticized Trump’s stance on retroactive pay for federal employees, emphasizing the historical practice of paying back salaries during and after shutdowns.
