Former NFL player Michael Strahan got sacked during a Wednesday morning exchange with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt when he questioned her about President Donald Trump putting an end to remote work for federal employees.
During Leavitt’s appearance on “Good Morning America,” the former defensive end pressed her on whether or not the implementation of such a policy would inspire people who were doing good work to leave their jobs entirely — a move that he implied would be a net loss for the American people.
WATCH:
Hilarious moment from @PressSec @KarolineLeavitt’s interview on ABC’s @GMA….
Michael Strahan: “But is there any concern we risk losing people with years of experience like doctors and — and let’s say scientists?”
Leavitt: “Well, most doctors who work in actual hospitals and… pic.twitter.com/TLNPhs0thO
— Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) January 29, 2025
“But is there any concern we risk losing people with years of experience like doctors and — and let’s say scientists?” Strahan asked.
“Well, most doctors who work in actual hospitals and medical institutions have to show up to the office,” Leavitt pointed out. “We know that employees are more productive and more efficient when they are working in an in-office environment and that’s what this administration expects. And I think that’s what American taxpayers expect.”
“Don’t forget it’s the American people funding this government. They deserve people who are actually showing up to work on their behalf,” she concluded.
Leavitt had issued a statement on the plan — which included a proposed buyout for those federal workers who chose not to return to in-office working — just one day prior:
After four years of incompetence and failure, President Donald Trump is committed to making our government efficient and productive again. American taxpayers pay for the salaries of federal government employees and therefore deserve employees working on their behalf who actually show up to work in our wonderful federal buildings, also paid for by taxpayers.
If they don’t want to work in the office and contribute to making America great again, then they are free to choose a different line of work, and the Trump Administration will provide a very generous payout of eight months.”