This decision marks a significant reversal of the remote work trend that gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing many federal employees to abandon their flexible work arrangements.
Reddit Uproar and Boycott Plans
In response to the order, a now-deleted Reddit post titled “Boycott using local businesses around work site if forced back to office” ignited discussions among federal workers about how to push back against the mandate.
The original poster urged colleagues to avoid spending money at local businesses near their workplaces, writing, “For those that end up being forced back to their respective offices, I would avoid patronizing the local businesses in those areas. Bring your own lunch to avoid using the eateries and grocery stores, avoid parking in pay parking (use mass transit if available), and don’t buy anything at the shops or gas stations.”
Federal Workers Voice Their Frustrations
While the boycott is only symbolic, it reflects the frustration many federal employees feel about being ordered back to their offices.