U.S. federal workers face fresh uncertainty after billionaire Elon Musk gave them a second chance to respond to his order that they justify their jobs or risk termination. Musk’s latest directive came in a post on his social media site X late Monday; it contradicted guidance from the Office of Personnel Management telling workers they could ignore Musk’s earlier email ordering them to summarize their accomplishments or risk losing their jobs. On Tuesday, Trump added to the chaos and uncertainty with these comments. 

President Donald Trump: “Well, it’s somewhat voluntary, but it’s also, if you don’t answer, I guess you get fired.”