USDA to Relocate Majority of DC Staff

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will relocate over half of its Washington, D.C. workforce—about 2,600 employees—to five regional hubs in Raleigh, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Fort Collins, and Salt Lake City as part of a major reorganization. The plan will consolidate or eliminate regional offices and reduce capital region staff to below 2,000, while most USDA employees already work outside Washington. Secretary Brooke Rollins said the move aligns with President Trump's goal to streamline government and improve service to farmers and rural communities. Some lawmakers and state officials have welcomed the anticipated economic benefits, but critics, including the federal workers’ union, warn it could undermine support for farmers and disrupt essential services. Experts have expressed concerns about possible staff attrition and delays in USDA operations, as the reorganization will affect functions ranging from research to nutrition and forestry. The transition is expected to take several months.