Federal Government Faces Significant Lawyer Exodus Under President Trump
The federal government is experiencing a significant reduction in its legal workforce under President Trump's second term. According to reports, more than 10,000 government lawyers have left their positions since early 2025, resulting in a 17% decrease in the overall federal lawyer headcount. The Department of Justice has seen a 20% reduction in its legal staff, while agencies such as Education and Housing have lost 40% or more of their legal teams. In contrast, the Department of Homeland Security has increased its legal team by 21%, aligning with the administration's focus on immigration enforcement. This trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including internal resistance to the administration's policies and a shift in enforcement priorities.