The Trump administration is planning significant workforce reductions at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and other U.S. intelligence agencies, targeting a cut of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 employees over several years. This strategy is seen as more measured compared to broader cuts at other federal departments, such as the U.S. Agency for International Development, which have faced greater dismantling.
While the CIA has not disclosed its current employee numbers, leaked documents from 2013 indicated over 21,000 staff members. A CIA spokesperson noted that Director John Ratcliffe aims to align the agency’s workforce with the administration’s national security priorities, highlighting a strategy for invigorating the agency and facilitating leadership opportunities.
The reductions across intelligence agencies, which rely on the Pentagon’s budget, will also align with the Department of Defense’s goal to decrease its civilian workforce by up to 8%. The workforce cuts at the CIA will be achieved through a combination of reduced hiring, early retirements, and buyout offers for voluntary resignations, with no mass firings planned.
These cutbacks come amidst rising global security threats, including China’s military expansion, Russia’s actions in Ukraine, and Iran’s nuclear ambitions. During a Cabinet meeting, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated her office had already reduced its size by 25% since her appointment.
Additionally, the administration’s push for efficiency includes attempts to lay off employees associated with diversity programs, although legal challenges have halted some of these actions. The CIA had previously offered buyouts to its staff in February, further indicating its commitment to workforce restructuring while navigating complex security challenges.
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