President Trump Proposes 2027 Federal Civilian Pay Freeze, Unions Push Back
President Trump has issued a letter proposing a freeze on most federal civilian pay for 2027. This action, taken on August 26, replaces statutory pay increases that would otherwise occur under the Federal Employees Pay Comparability Act of 1990 with a zero adjustment to base and locality pay. An exception is made for federal law enforcement personnel, who are slated for a 3.8% increase. Active-duty military members are also set to receive raises between 5% and 7%. The President justified the civilian pay freeze by stating it "will maintain fiscal responsibility without harming the government’s ability to recruit and retain well qualified employees," while arguing the law enforcement increase is necessary for recruitment and retention in those roles. Federal employee unions, including the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), have strongly criticized the proposed freeze, calling it a "slap in the face" and warning it could politicize the workfor... 
