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Subject: Protect Civil Service Neutrality
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Dear [Recipient],
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I am writing to express my concern regarding recent actions that may undermine the nonpartisan nature of the federal workforce, which is vital to maintaining an effective and trustworthy government.
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A politically neutral civil service is essential for the integrity, fairness, and competence of government. When civil servants remain politically neutral, they are able to perform their duties free from political reprisal, ensuring that government actions reflect the public interest, rather than the agendas of those in power. This neutrality upholds the rule of law, regardless of the political leadership in office.
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On January 28, 2025, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a memo titled "A Fork in the Road" (https://www.opm.gov/fork) to federal employees. This memo offered a voluntary resignation option by February 6, 2025, but lacked clarity on the details or process involved. Additionally, it introduces concerns about the restructuring of the federal workforce, the shift to at-will employment, and uncertainty surrounding job security for federal employees.
These changes could potentially conflict with the principles set forth in the Civil Service Reform Act (CSRA) of 1978, which established a merit-based, nonpartisan civil service system. The shift toward at-will employment and the restructuring process, combined with the vague nature of the resignation offer, raise serious concerns that such actions may undermine the political neutrality that is foundational to the effectiveness of the federal workforce.
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A politically neutral civil service is a cornerstone of democracy, safeguarding fairness, stability, and professionalism—all essential components of effective governance. I urge you to consider the implications of these recent actions and their potential to weaken the core principles of the CSRA.
My requests are as follows:
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To immediately rescind the OPM memo ("A Fork in the Road"), which introduces undue uncertainty and pressure on federal employees, potentially creating a politically charged atmosphere that threatens the neutrality of the civil service.
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To uphold the principles of the CSRA, ensuring that any workforce reforms do not compromise the integrity or nonpartisan nature of the federal workforce. Reforms should maintain the merit-based, politically neutral foundation that ensures a fair and effective government.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your leadership in protecting the integrity of our civil service and the principles of good governance.
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Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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