The attitude of non-compliance among federal employees is not unique to the Trump administration but is a recurring theme across presidencies, reflecting a broader cultural norm within the federal bureaucracy. Federal employees, often referred to as 'bureaucrats,' have historically shown a tendency to resist or slow-walk policies they disagree with, regardless of the president's political affiliation. This behavior stems from their long-term commitment to public service, where they prioritize their interpretation of public interest over political directives. Observations from previous administrations, including those of Obama, Bush, and Clinton, reveal similar patterns where federal workers have engaged in passive resistance, legal challenges, or outright defiance when faced with policy directives they found contentious. This continuity suggests that federal employees often see themselves as guardians of institutional norms and values, sometimes viewing their role as to temper or resist what they perceive as overreaches or misalignments with the mission of their agencies.
 

During Donald Trump's first term, federal employees exhibited various forms of resistance to his policy directives, highlighting a significant tension between the career civil service and political appointees. This resistance was evident in several instances, such as when hundreds of State Department officials signed a dissent cable against Trump's travel ban, indicating a collective pushback against what they perceived as controversial policies. Legal actions also played a role, with federal unions like the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) challenging executive orders aimed at reducing their influence or altering employment conditions. A federal judge rejected key elements of these orders, underscoring the bureaucratic resistance to policy changes that could undermine job security and union power.
 

Recent polls have shed light on the current mindset of federal employees concerning compliance with potential Trump administration directives. A Federal News Network "Pulse Poll" revealed that 42% of federal employees plan to stay in their jobs, while 41% are adopting a cautious "wait and see" approach, indicating a significant portion of the workforce is opting for stability or observation amidst potential policy shifts. Additionally, sentiment on platforms like X has shown that 42% of federal employees intend to resist Trump's policies, suggesting a notable level of anticipated non-compliance. The resistance mindset among federal employees is further emphasized by political affiliation, with only 17% of Democratic federal managers who voted for Harris indicating they would follow an order from Trump, while 64% would resist, according to posts found on X.