1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong concern regarding the administration’s fiscal year 2027 budget proposal, which effectively calls for a pay freeze for civilian federal employees. According to the proposal, there is no planned pay raise for civilian workers in 2027, while military personnel are slated to receive raises ranging from approximately 5 to 7 percent depending on rank. This disparity sends a troubling message about the value placed on the civilian workforce, which plays a critical role in keeping our government functioning and serving the American public. Federal employees have already faced limited compensation growth in recent years, including a modest 1 percent pay raise in 2026 for most workers. Continuing this pattern with a full pay freeze in 2027 risks further eroding morale, worsening recruitment and retention challenges, and diminishing the government’s ability to attract qualified professionals. I am also concerned that this proposal reflects a broader trend of devaluing the federal workforce, alongside efforts to reduce staffing levels and restructure agencies. Civilian employees are essential to national security, public health, infrastructure, and countless other services that Americans rely on every day. Congress ultimately has the authority to determine federal pay. I urge you to reject this proposed pay freeze and instead support a fair and competitive pay raise for civilian federal employees that reflects both inflation and the importance of their work. Our federal workforce deserves respect, stability, and fair compensation. I ask that you stand up for them and advocate for a budget that recognizes their contributions.