1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

One of the bedrock principles of American democracy is a nonpartisan civil service that upholds the Constitution, not loyalty to any individual president or political party. The executive orders and directives outlined in the "Fork in the Road" email sent to 2.5 million federal workers on 1/28/2025 raise serious concerns about harassment and mistreatment of federal employees. Requiring employees to return to offices full-time, subjecting them to enhanced scrutiny and potential investigations, and threatening downsizing, layoffs and terminations create an environment of fear and intimidation. Federal workers dedicate their careers to serving the American people and should be treated with dignity and respect. In Georgia, federal employees are a vital part of the state's economy, contributing billions in salaries and spending that support local businesses and communities. I urge you to reconsider these punitive policies that will demoralize and destabilize the federal workforce. Instead of attacking civil servants, we should be supporting them and fostering a positive environment where they can excel at their jobs. Reinstate telework flexibility, maintain reasonable performance standards, and avoid draconian disciplinary measures except for true misconduct. The federal government requires a strong, professional workforce to function effectively. These directives will only drive away talented people and impair the ability to deliver vital services to citizens. Put the well-being of federal employees, the economic health of states like Georgia, and the public interest first.