State Department Layoffs Reveal Persistent Bureaucratic Bloat Despite National Security Needs

In July 2025, the State Department followed through on a sweeping reorganization plan set in motion during the Trump administration that led to over 1,300 employee layoffs. Among those dismissed were workers engaged in intelligence gathering, protecting U.S. energy interests overseas, combating visa fraud, and addressing strategic competition with China. Why Did Washington Delay Holding Its Own Accountable? For years, Washington’s diplomatic corps ballooned with redundant positions and entrenched bureaucrats more focused on preserving their status quo than advancing America’s national interests. This latest purge—while painful—was necessary to cut through layers of inefficiency that have long diluted America's global strength....