“Protecting NASA Employees: A Warning Amidst Rising Harassment Concerns”

NASA Warns Employees to Use Discretion Amid Reports of Harassment

In a recent email to NASA employees, Dr. James Polk, the agency’s chief health and medical officer, urged caution and discretion in displaying badges or emblems that identify them as federal workers. The warning comes in response to “stories of possible harassment” directed towards federal employees outside of work.

The email, obtained by ProPublica, highlighted a specific incident where an employee was reportedly assaulted at a Starbucks for being a federal worker. Nicola Fox, an associate administrator at NASA, shared the incident during a meeting, emphasizing the need for employees to be mindful of their surroundings.

The current administration, led by President Donald Trump, has been vocal in its criticism of federal workers, with the president stating that the government is “bloated” and “sloppy.” This rhetoric has raised concerns among NASA employees, prompting the agency to take measures to protect its staff.

NASA spokesperson Cheryl Warner confirmed that while there have been reports of possible harassment towards employees, the agency has not received reports of assault. Managers have been reminded to be vigilant and report any incidents to the Office of Protective Services.

The email circulating among NASA employees has sparked concerns about the safety of government workers in the current political climate. The Trump administration has been actively working to reduce the size of the federal government, leading to heightened tensions and scrutiny of federal employees.

Elon Musk, appointed by Trump to head the Department of Government Efficiency, has been at the forefront of efforts to evaluate the productivity of federal workers. Musk recently demanded that employees list their accomplishments or face termination, further adding to the pressure on government workers.

In light of these developments, Polk advised NASA employees to maintain situational awareness and operational security. He emphasized the importance of caution in public spaces and encouraged employees to be aware of their surroundings at all times.

If you are a federal worker who has experienced harassment due to your government status, ProPublica encourages you to reach out. Contact their tips number on Signal at ‪917-512-0201‬ for more information on securely sharing your experiences.

As the situation unfolds, NASA continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its employees in the face of increasing scrutiny and challenges from the current political climate.