Amidst the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and prompt the departure of its employees, over 300 career workers have left their positions post-election, as revealed by a ProPublica analysis. While this exodus represents a small fraction of the EPA’s workforce, it includes key professionals like toxicologists, lawyers, engineers, and emergency response personnel. The departure of dedicated employees like Gary Jonesi, who had worked at the agency for nearly 40 years, reflects concerns about the administration’s intentions and its impact on environmental protection efforts.

The Trump administration’s push for radical changes at the EPA, including the rollback of environmental protections, has created a climate of fear, resignation, and defiance among employees. The administration’s attempts to entice resignations through financial incentives have been met with resistance by many employees who are committed to the agency’s mission and public service.

The administration’s plans to relocate the EPA headquarters and dismantle environmental justice programs have further fueled uncertainty and distress among staff, with some facing the possibility of being laid off. The loss of experienced professionals and the potential removal of civil service protections could significantly impact the EPA’s ability to fulfill its critical role in safeguarding public health and the environment.

Despite the challenging circumstances, some employees remain steadfast in their commitment to the EPA’s mission, viewing the administration’s actions as a test of their dedication. The ongoing turmoil at the agency underscores the human costs of political upheaval and underscores the resilience and determination of EPA employees to continue their vital work in the face of adversity.