President Donald Trump’s initiative to optimize the federal workforce has faced setbacks after employees at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) were fired. As part of the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) push to reduce government size, more than 300 NNSA workers were reportedly terminated, though an Energy Department spokesperson later clarified that fewer than 50 were dismissed.

The firings, which took place on February 13, raised concerns as NNSA oversees the US nuclear stockpile, critical to national security. Reports indicated that officials were unaware of the significance of the staff they were letting go.

Following the backlash, efforts were made to reverse the firings, with an email instructing NNSA employees to contact terminated colleagues. One nuclear safety specialist, who was locked out of her email, confirmed her termination notice was rescinded, though she indicated she would leave once she found another role.

The incident highlights the challenges of balancing workforce efficiency with national security priorities.