Trump Administration Orders HUD to Cut 50% of Workforce, Targeting Civil Rights and Disaster Recovery Offices

The Trump administration has directed the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to eliminate 50% of its workforce, a move that could severely impact fair housing enforcement, housing market research, and disaster recovery efforts.

Antonio Gaines, president of AFGE National Council 222, confirmed the plan to Bloomberg Law, stating that the layoffs will primarily affect HUD offices responsible for enforcing civil rights laws, analyzing housing market data, and funding disaster relief efforts. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which provides mortgage insurance, will be exempt from the job cuts.

The workforce reduction follows a February 11 directive from  Trump, ordering federal agencies to eliminate roles that “perform functions not mandated by statute.” The directive specifically calls for eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs—many of which operate within HUD’s civil rights offices.

With HUD employing approximately 9,600 people, the layoffs could eliminate nearly 4,800 jobs. The agency has not yet issued an official statement regarding the cuts.

HUD plays a critical role in providing affordable housing assistance, enforcing fair housing laws, and aiding communities after natural disasters. By targeting the offices responsible for civil rights and disaster relief, these cuts could disproportionately impact low-income families, marginalized communities, and areas still recovering from past disasters.