Writing a Letter to the Editor
The Trump Administration will waste no time dismantling the government and targeting AFGE for extinction. We can’t afford to waste a moment preparing ourselves to survive and thrive in this hostile environment.
Letters to the editor are a quick and easy way to reach your local communities. AFGE has templates for you to download on hot-button issues, like privatization. This training also helps you create an effective Letter to the Editor even without a template.
Resources for Writing Letters to the Editor
- Click here for details on submissions for the 100 largest U.S. newspapers.
- Click here to read a sample letter to the editor from AFGE.
Generic Letter
Title: Cutting Federal Jobs Hurts America’s Families and Future
Dear [Recipient],
The federal workforce is under attack. Ideas like firing half of federal employees by social security number or dismantling entire agencies are being floated under the guise of “efficiency.” But behind the hyperbole is a serious threat to our nation’s stability, security, and services.
As President of AFGE Local XX in [City/State], I represent [agency’s workforce], who [agency's mission]. Federal workers are not faceless bureaucrats—we are dedicated public servants, often earning less than our private-sector counterparts. We safeguard your health, security, and economy.
Proposals to dramatically cut or to politicize the civil service, replacing merit-based professionals with political appointees, are bad for the country. Doing this would return us to the corrupt “spoils system,” destabilizing the efficient, nonpartisan workforce that has been a cornerstone of American governance for over a century.
Federal employees ensure veterans receive care, keep air travel safe, protect communities, make sure our food is safe to eat, and so much more. Cutting jobs will not save money—it will cost lives, compromise safety, and harm families who rely on essential services.
Our workforce represents every corner of America. We are your neighbors, family, and friends. As we embark on a new administration, let us work together to build, not dismantle, the systems that make our country strong.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
VA Letter
Subject: Protect Our Nation’s Veterans: Support VA Workers
Dear [Recipient],
At the VA, we proudly serve America’s veterans. Cutting jobs and funding for the VA will not make government more efficient—it will fail those who sacrificed to serve our nation.
As President of AFGE Local XX in [City/State], I represent hardworking individuals dedicated to veterans’ care—nurses, administrative staff, and other professionals. Our workforce is diverse and deeply committed, with many veterans among us. Yet, we are perpetually underfunded and overworked, leaving critical needs unmet.
The rhetoric branding federal employees as "inefficiencies" ignores the truth: our members provide essential services under resource constraints. The VA is already operating at its limit—further cuts will devastate our ability to deliver quality care to veterans who deserve nothing less.
I urge our leaders to recognize the vital contributions of VA workers. We are not just federal employees; we are your neighbors, friends, and fellow citizens serving those who served. Before considering cuts, reflect on the lives that depend on the work we do every day.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
TSA Letter
Subject: TSA Workers: Essential to America’s Security
Dear [Recipient],
Every day, Transportation Security Officers ensure millions of passengers travel safely. This crucial work protects lives, secures our economy, and supports a thriving aviation industry worth $3 trillion annually.
As President of AFGE Local XX at [Airport Name], I represent TSA employees who work tirelessly to uphold safety standards. Yet, recent rhetoric about cutting federal jobs treats them as expendable "inefficiencies." Reducing the TSA workforce or privatizing airport security would endanger passenger safety and weaken our national security.
The TSA was created to prevent tragedies like 9/11, when private security failed. Today, TSA officers operate under constrained budgets and below-market salaries. Further cuts would compromise the safety of air travel, eroding the public’s trust and endangering our economy.
Efforts to improve government efficiency must not come at the expense of security. I urge policymakers to recognize TSA employees as essential to our nation’s safety and success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
Bureau of Prisons Letter
Subject: Protecting Our Communities: Federal Prison Workers are Not Expendable
Dear [Recipient],
Every day, the employees of the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) work in one of the nation’s most dangerous environments to protect our communities. As President of AFGE Local XX, representing correctional officers, medical staff, and administrative employees at [Facility Name], I know firsthand the challenges we face to keep the public safe.
Recent rhetoric about “government inefficiencies” and calls to cut federal jobs overlook the critical role BOP workers play. Chronic understaffing and underfunding have already strained our ability to effectively rehabilitate offenders and maintain security. Cutting resources further would jeopardize public safety, as well as the lives of employees and inmates.
We ensure the safety of your communities, the rehabilitation of offenders, and the maintenance of justice. Any effort to reduce the federal workforce must consider the vital role BOP employees play in ensuring the safety and stability of our society.
I urge policymakers to invest in, not diminish, the resources and staffing needed to keep our prisons safe and functional. The consequences of neglecting this responsibility would ripple far beyond prison walls.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
Department of Defense Letter
Subject: Supporting the Mission: DoD Civilian Workers are Vital to National Security
Dear [Recipient],
The Department of Defense’s civilian workforce forms the backbone of America’s national security. As President of AFGE Local XX, representing civilian employees at [Installation/Agency Name], I see every day how dedicated professionals ensure our armed forces are supported, equipped, and ready to defend the nation.
Proposals to reduce federal staffing or shift responsibilities to private contractors undermine the DoD’s readiness and effectiveness. From maintaining critical infrastructure to providing logistical and administrative support, DoD civilians perform specialized tasks that directly impact mission success. Cuts would weaken our national security and erode the morale of a workforce already stretched thin.
These jobs are not just positions on a payroll; they represent the work of skilled individuals committed to serving our country. Many of us are veterans or come from military families, and we take pride in supporting America’s defense.
I urge Congress and the administration to ensure the DoD’s civilian workforce receives the funding and support it needs to fulfill its mission. National security cannot be compromised in the name of efficiency.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
Social Security Administration Letter
Subject: Social Security Workers are Essential to Serving the American People
Dear [Recipient],
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a lifeline to millions of Americans, from retirees to people with disabilities. As President of AFGE Local XX, representing SSA employees in [City/State], I know the critical role we play in ensuring Americans receive the benefits they’ve earned.
Proposals to slash federal jobs and budgets threaten the SSA’s ability to serve the public. Already, we face significant backlogs and understaffing that delay services for people who rely on them. Further cuts would mean longer wait times, reduced access to assistance, and increased frustration for the American people.
SSA employees are dedicated public servants, many of whom are your neighbors and family members. We are not “inefficiencies.” We are hardworking professionals helping Americans navigate life’s challenges with dignity and respect.
I urge policymakers to recognize the importance of a fully funded and staffed Social Security Administration. Undermining these services harms not only federal employees but also the millions of Americans who depend on us.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
President, AFGE Local XX
