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This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with a federal contractor for the Department of Defense located in the Washington, DC, metro area. Out of concern for potential job repercussions, the individual has requested to remain anonymous. Business Insider has verified their identity and employment credentials. The content of the essay has been edited for length and clarity.

The contractor's aspiration to work on Capitol Hill or within the realm of federal policymaking dates back to their high school years. Initially hailing from Texas, they made the move to the East Coast to pursue higher education. After spending a year at a college in New York, they transferred to American University in Washington, DC, with the intention of gaining firsthand experience in the political landscape. This strategic decision was primarily motivated by the desire to secure a foothold in the federal government, hoping it would enhance their job prospects in the future.

Settling in the Washington, DC area proved to be a pivotal choice, as it is widely recognized as the hub of all governmental activities. To bolster their qualifications and increase their chances of entering the policy field, they pursued a masters degree. Despite initial struggles to break into the competitive arena, they were advised that obtaining an advanced degree would significantly benefit their career in the long run. Looking back, they are grateful for this decision, as it has led to at least two job opportunities along their career path.

Reflecting on the political landscape, the contractor mentioned the unexpected election of Donald Trump in 2016, which occurred during their sophomore year at American University. While initially, there appeared to be a sense of business as usual among government officials during Trump's first term, the atmosphere shifted dramatically with the start of his second term. The contractor expressed surprise at the level of hostility and disruption that ensued, particularly for their field and their peers, many of whom have also faced job instability.

During this period, one friend who was employed by the Office of Personnel Management found themselves out of work just six weeks into the administration, highlighting the precarious employment situation facing many government workers. The contractor recounted how their LinkedIn feed became inundated with posts from former colleagues desperately seeking new job opportunities, stating, "I am looking for work. I can no longer work for this thing. The RIF hit me." (Reduction in Force).

Amid this uncertainty, the contractor is actively submitting rsums, although not at the frantic pace typical of someone who is unemployed. They noted that while job postings related to government positions have significantly dwindled, the prospect of being laid off loomed large. Their enthusiasm for pursuing a career within the federal government has waned considerably, primarily due to concerns over job security and the perceived volatility of the political environment. Once drawn to federal employment for its stability, benefits, and civic service opportunities, they now find themselves reluctant to consider such positions.

Regarding their current role, the contractor noted a stark shift in the office dynamics. Several colleagues have left, with expectations of more departures on the horizon. Every day brings a sense of anxiety as they log on to work, haunted by the fear of a notification from their supervisor indicating a meeting with HR or the unsettling possibility of losing their contract. They have taken the proactive step of setting up news alerts for announcements from figures like Pete Hegseth, who has been vocal about proposed cuts in government contracts.

This persistent anxiety has begun to take a toll on their personal life. Concentration at work has become increasingly difficult, leading to sleepless nights and escalating levels of stress. In response to the financial uncertainty, they have drastically reduced discretionary spending. Previously, they would allocate 20% of their paycheck into savings; now that figure has dropped to 50%. Social outings, once a staple in their routine, have also diminished significantly. Where they would often celebrate the end of the workweek with dining out, these outings have become infrequent. Plans for travel to visit family in Texas have been cast into doubt, reflecting a broader sense of uncertainty in both their professional and personal lives.

Before the political upheaval of this year, the contractor felt a sense of clarity regarding their future. They possessed a clear understanding of what the upcoming days, weeks, and months would entail. Now, however, the unpredictability of their work situation looms large, leaving them unsure of the responsibilities they may face in the near future. The burden of uncertainty weighs heavily, as they consider who will be expected to shoulder the added workload as their office grapples with personnel shortages.