MCLEAN, Va. (DC News Now) — There are now state leaders hoping to help newly fired federal workers.
In Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin is sharing some new resources, including touting tens of thousands of jobs he says are available right now.
Some workers said they’re glad Youngkin is doing something about the problem.
Youngkin expressed empathy Monday for those fired.
But for many, it’s a problem they say should have been avoided in the first place and these resources won’t help them get their federal jobs back.
“There are opportunities in Virginia and we want to help you find them to build the next chapter of your careers,” Youngkin said.
It’s the next chapter that thousands of federal workers didn’t ask for as the Trump administration continues to make cuts.
“Our federal workforce is not at fault here. But the reality is, any CEO who steps into a position where there is an organization that has got such deep financial challenges is going to have to make change,” Youngkin said.
The new website, Virginia Has Jobs, has resources to connect people with jobs, training and support. Youngkin said there are 250,000 open jobs, with 100,000 of those in Northern Virginia.
“These people aren’t looking for a website. They’re looking to have their jobs back. They’re looking to have money to pay their mortgage and their car payment,” said Senate Majority Leader Scott A. Surovell (D-Fairfax).
Surovell blames Youngkin for the predicament workers are in.
“He’s been in denial about what’s happening across the river for the last two months since inauguration. And it is to defend this administration instead of standing up for his constituents,” Surovell said.
Fired workers, especially those with specific skill sets, said it won’t be easy finding a new job.
“I would like him to tell me where I should get a job that will pay me what I was making, so I can pay my mortgage and stay in the state of Virginia and not have to move back to the Midwest, because I love it here,” said Samantha Leach.
There are also resources for fired federal workers available here, including help applying for unemployment and preparing for the job search.
