A look at the role and influence of public officials and services in U.S. democracy, examining both supportive and destructive aspects.
In these challenging times, the nation is facing an inflection point, and the federal government is no exception. As the Trump administration prepares to lead, it's crucial to understand the roles and responsibilities of federal civil servants and the choices they, along with 'good government' organisations, must make.
Federal civil servants, who have emerged out of necessity as government functions have grown more complex, take an oath that profoundly shapes their actions in the American democracy. They are duty-bound to carry out lawful orders and privately give their best advice to a new appointee. However, they are not obligated to obey whatever Americans vote for, regardless of its consequences.
Being transparent, giving employees information, and due process, providing post-employment support, and thanking them for their service costs little but has a high return on investment. It is possible to cut waste in government without treating federal employees with disdain. The author abhors the way the current administration has dismantled and denigrated much of what is good about government.
The President of the United States traditionally appoints their key advisers through the Executive Office of the President at the time of the inauguration. The Trump administration was voted for by a solid majority of Americans, but that doesn't mean they automatically possess power. Bureaucrats do not inherently possess power; their power is derivative from the political system.
Political appointees are not bound by the advice of career civil servants, but it is important to remember that public servants must salute to the will of "We the People" in doing what they do. Federal employees, despite being let go, can still preserve their passion to serve.
The Trump administration will still have to lead the federal bureaucracy, however small it may eventually be. The collective goal is to best serve the American public. The author believes that you don't do that by denigrating your employees. Civil servants, 'good government' organisations, and the Trump administration have strategic choices to make. Let's hope they make the right ones for the betterment of our democracy.
