Maryland governor links federal job losses to Trump administration

Governor Wes Moore said Maryland lost about 24,900 federal jobs over the past year and attributed the losses to the Department of Government Efficiency; the department was disbanded in November.

Governor Wes Moore said Maryland lost about 24,900 federal jobs in the past year and attributed those losses to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the Trump administration. He noted Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., and the high share of federal workers in the state as reasons the impact felt larger locally. DOGE was created with a stated goal of reducing redundant federal positions, operated earlier in the year with leadership that included Elon Musk, and was disbanded in November. Officials and analysts cited potential effects on household incomes, local businesses and state tax revenue. Key reported facts: - The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate cited by Moore shows about 24,900 federal jobs lost in Maryland over the past year. - Moore attributes the losses to actions by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). - DOGE had a stated nationwide goal of cutting 300,000 federal jobs, was led by Elon Musk from January to May, and was disbanded in November. - Maryland's private-sector employment fell by about 4,400 in October and November, and the unemployment rate rose from 3.8% in September to 4.2% in November. Summary: Moore says the federal layoffs have direct effects on Maryland families, local businesses and tax revenue, and his administration says it is working to expand private-sector employment to reduce reliance on federal jobs. Analysts quoted in reporting said reductions in federal payrolls can lower household incomes and state revenue. Undetermined at this time.