Trump Administration Plans to Cut 1,200 CIA Jobs, Thousands More Across Intelligence Agencies

The Trump administration is planning to reduce staffing at the CIA by approximately 1,200 positions and cut thousands more jobs across other major U.S. intelligence agencies, including the NSA, over several years. The reductions will primarily be achieved through reduced hiring, early retirements, and voluntary resignations rather than mass layoffs. These moves are presented by the administration as part of a broader strategy to align intelligence agencies with national security priorities, increase efficiency, and provide opportunities for emerging leaders. Agency leadership, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe, has emphasized that the changes are intended to infuse the agencies with renewed energy and better position them to fulfill their missions. However, critics warn that such significant cuts could undermine U.S. intelligence capabilities and national security, especially amid global tensions. The administration has also targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion programs for elimination, though some efforts to terminate related staff have been blocked by a judge.