South Fairfax News

Rep. Gerry Connolly, a member of the U.S. Congress representing Virginia’s 11th district since 2009, recently expressed his concerns through a series of tweets regarding developments in federal employment and political appointments under former President Donald Trump. Connolly's statements reflect his apprehension about Trump's influence on the civil service and federal funding policies.

On February 6, 2025, Connolly commented on a judicial decision affecting federal employees. He stated, "I am relieved that a federal judge has put a temporary halt to Donald Trump's scheme to force a mass exodus of federal employees. But this is not over. Trump will try every trick he can think of to purge the civil service of experts and replace them with his own political…" This statement highlights Connolly's relief at the judicial intervention but also underscores his belief that efforts to alter the civil service are ongoing.

The following day, February 7, 2025, Connolly addressed the confirmation of Russ Vought as head of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) by Senate Republicans. He tweeted, "Last night, Senate Republicans confirmed Russ Vought, a Project 2025 architect, to lead OMB." He further criticized Vought for advocating policies that align with Trump's interests: "Vought openly advocated to weaponize federal funding to push Trump’s pet projects, deprive communities of resources, and punish those seen as insufficiently loyal to President Trump.…"

In another tweet posted on February 7, 2025, Connolly condemned both Vought's confirmation and the broader implications for American governance. He remarked that "With their confirmation vote, Senate Republicans have not only endorsed Vought—they have also endorsed the dystopian and authoritarian Project 2025 agenda he will inflict on the American people as head of OMB." Additionally, he pledged that @OversightDems would actively oppose these measures: @OversightDems will fight relentlessly to block these dangerous…