In the wake of massive layoffs directed by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Melissa Pickworth of Wayland has announced her reirement from the health care agency.
Ms. Pickworth posted on Facebook, “Sadly, Monday was my last day at FDA after 17 years at the agency and 25 years of federal service. Although I did not get swept up in yesterday’s devastating HHS RIF, my choice to leave federal service and retire early was definitely influenced by the reality it was very likely coming.
“Yesterday was a brutal blow to transparency at HHS and many of us are still reeling from the news. Many brilliant colleagues in our communications, external relations, and disclosure teams were let go with no clear rhyme or reason- or even understanding about what we do.
“Take the time to understand how we save lives and protect the public health. Sometimes, the fact that no one dies is because we did our jobs. But those stories aren’t always told. And that is why I am sharing this now so you understand what is at stake.
This chainsaw approach to the federal government will leave many at risk.
