The Trump administration is carrying out one of the largest workforce reductions in U.S. history, targeting over 200,000 probationary employees across multiple government agencies.

According to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), as of March 2024, approximately 220,000 federal workers had not yet completed their probationary period. An additional 288,000 had between one and two years of service, leaving them vulnerable to restructuring efforts.

Among the hardest-hit agencies is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), long criticized for its aggressive tactics against everyday Americans. Reports first indicated that around 9,000 IRS jobs would be cut, but sources now suggest that as many as 15,000 employees—many hired during the Biden administration—could face termination as early as next week. These positions, largely unrelated to tax processing, are being scrutinized as part of broader cost-cutting measures.

While critics claim the downsizing could impact tax season, the reality is that the IRS has long operated with bloated inefficiencies. These layoffs serve as a necessary course correction, ensuring taxpayer dollars are no longer wasted on bureaucratic overreach.

Adding to the administration’s reform efforts, a Department of Government Efficiency official was recently seen at IRS headquarters, reportedly investigating outdated technology and audit enforcement practices. This signals an even deeper push to streamline government operations and hold agencies accountable.

As the administration moves forward, Trump’s commitment to cutting government waste is proving to be one of the defining themes of his second term.