Government

Overall, the federal government employed nearly 2.3 million civilian workers, excluding the Postal Service, in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Little change is expected in federal employment from 2023 through 2033, with growth of only 0.2 percent expected during this time span. Only 5,100 new jobs will be added through 2033, but there will also be a need to replace workers who retire or leave the government sector for other reasons. Almost 19.9 million people were employed by state and local governments, with the majority working for local governments. Job opportunities in state and local government will only increase by 1.2 percent from 2023 through 2033. A total of 240,400 new jobs will be added during this time span.

Little or no change in employment is expected for top executives (including mayors, city managers, county administrators, and governors) at the federal level through 2033, according to the DOL. Job opportunities at the state ands local levels will increase as fast as the average for all careers.

Although there is always the possibility of staff cutbacks on local, regional, and federal levels, opportunities in government will remain good. The government will always require fairly extensive staffing to accomplish its work, but budget concerns will determine how many aides are hired for congressional staff work. In coming years, more of the congressional aide positions will be consolidated, and aides will be performing a number of different duties, from press relations to legislative research.

Careers in politics are affected by the issues of the day. Current needs, such as public safety, aggression against terrorism and cyberattacks, protection of the environment, providing for increased populations, and cultural diversity, will likely become more urgent—which will create more job opportunities in certain careers. For example, employment for information security analysts at all government levels is expected to increase much faster than the average through 2033, according to the DOL. The Internet, smartphones, tablets, and other communication technologies will continue to require special attention as the government attempts to pass laws concerning privacy issues, copyright protection, and federal involvement in TV and radio broadcasting. Health care, taxation, education, and human rights will always be near the top of political agendas.

The agencies of the Foreign Service and the number of Foreign Service officers hired will be affected if embassies and consulates are closed around the world. The relations between the United States and other countries will determine funding for international affairs.

The Internet and social media have become another resource for political research, public opinion polling, campaigning, and rumors. Candidates, consultants, and campaign workers will continue to use the Internet and social media as carefully as they have the broadcast media. Voters will be better informed about issues at hand and bills up for consideration by their state and federal lawmakers.