Loyalty tests and MAGA checks for federal jobs are illegal

I am contacting you to raise serious concerns about the reported hiring practices described in multiple national news feeds, detailing instances of job seekers for federal positions being asked about their political affiliations, including questions about their “MAGA revelation.” Such practices are not only ethically terrifying, amoral and are also in clear violation of federal law. Under the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 and related federal regulations, it is explicitly illegal to consider political affiliation when hiring for federal jobs within the competitive service. The goal of these laws is to ensure that federal employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and competence—not political allegiance. This principle is foundational to maintaining a professional and nonpartisan civil service. According to the news coverage, individuals seeking federal positions have faced intrusive questions about their loyalty to President Donald Trump and their personal alignment with specific political ideologies. These practices run counter to the very essence of a neutral civil service. For example, asking about a “moment of MAGA revelation” as part of a job application process is not only irrelevant to the duties of the position but also fosters an environment of extreme ideological bias and discrimination. This kind of political litmus test undermines confidence in federal institutions by prioritizing loyalty over expertise. Particularly troubling are the on-going process to replace experienced foreign policy and national security personnel with politically aligned individuals at a time when the nation faces the most complex global challenges. It is critical that federal employees in these roles possess the necessary expertise and institutional knowledge, free from political interference. The merit-based civil service system is a cornerstone of American democracy, designed to ensure the government serves the interests of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. These practices represent a dangerous erosion of that system. Furthermore, they open the door to potential lawsuits and administrative actions against those involved, as such actions violate not only federal law but also the constitutional principles of equal protection and fairness. I urge you to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take all action necessary to reign in this rogue administration and ensure that federal hiring practices remain in strict compliance with the law. A failure to address this issue risks further politicization of the federal workforce and erosion of public trust in government institutions. America is waiting to see what steps you take to uphold the integrity of federal hiring processes.