Trump Officials Terminate Hundreds at Nuclear Administration, Then Retract Firings

The Trump administration faced backlash after allegedly firing over 300 employees from the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as part of broader layoffs at the Energy Department. According to insiders, the removals were executed without the officials realizing the NNSA's critical role in managing the U.S. nuclear stockpile. In a statement to CNN, an Energy Department representative claimed that "less than 50" employees were dismissed, stating that they primarily held administrative positions.

The firings included essential staff who oversee nuclear weapon construction and safety checks, prompting concerns from Congress regarding national security implications. Individuals familiar with the matter expressed alarm at the apparent lack of understanding about the NNSA's importance, particularly in light of recent international tensions.

By Friday morning, the NNSA began reversing the terminations after receiving directives to retain the affected probationary employees. Acting NNSA administrator Teresa Robbins announced that the jobs of those not yet fired were secure and access to agency systems would be reinstated. Lawmakers have urged the Energy Department to prioritize and support NNSA's vital operations.