The highest-paid federal employee is set to depart from his $10.5 million-a-year position at the end of President Donald Trump’s first term back in office, following the administration’s decision to remove him from his role. The move aligns with Trump’s broader effort to restructure federal agencies and cut what he has described as excessive government spending on bureaucratic salaries.
The official, whose name has not been disclosed in the latest announcement, has been a controversial figure due to the unusually high compensation attached to the position. Trump had previously criticized the salary, calling it an unnecessary burden on taxpayers and vowing to eliminate what he viewed as wasteful expenditures within federal agencies.
The departure follows a series of personnel changes within the administration as Trump works to implement his agenda of downsizing government operations and eliminating positions he deems inefficient. While supporters of the decision argue that cutting inflated salaries is necessary for fiscal responsibility, critics contend that such moves risk losing experienced professionals who contribute to key government functions.
The White House has not yet announced a replacement or whether the role will be eliminated entirely. However, Trump’s stance on reducing government payroll costs suggests that further agency shake-ups could be on the horizon. As the administration continues its efforts to overhaul federal employment structures, more high-profile exits may follow in the coming months.