politics
March 26, 2026
Democrats question NWS about staffing shortages caused by DOGE
A group of Democratic lawmakers sharply questioned National Weather Service leadership Wednesday over the fallout from mass firings in early 2025, warning that the loss of hundreds of forecasters may have jeopardized public safety amid extreme weather in recent months.
TL;DR
- Democratic lawmakers questioned NWS leadership about mass firings in early 2025.
- Approximately 600 NWS employees were lost due to early retirement and probationary firings linked to DOGE efforts.
- Lawmakers warned that these staffing losses may have jeopardized public safety during recent extreme weather.
- Concerns were raised about critical gaps in staffing at local forecast offices, including overnight coverage.
- The NWS is reportedly rebuilding staffing, with over 400 new forecasters approved and many already hired.
- Lawmakers criticized the firings and subsequent rehiring as inefficient, wasteful, fraudulent, and abusive.
- There is lingering bipartisan frustration over the 2025 cuts, with continued scrutiny expected.
- The NWS emphasized a focus on rebuilding staffing levels and maintaining public safety.
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