**Title: Trump’s Washington: When Praising Federal Workers Becomes Perilous**
**Lead:** In a twist fitting the turbulent climate of Trump-era politics, acknowledging federal employees for exemplary service has emerged as a contentious act.
**Story:** Under Trump’s administration, the seemingly innocuous act of recognizing federal workers for their dedication is tangled with risk. Traditionally a moment of pride, these accolades now tow a fine line between gratitude and controversy. In a polarized Washington, honoring public servants can be misconstrued as taking a political stand. As agencies grapple with budget cuts and policy shifts, the threat of partisanship looms over even small gestures of appreciation. Navigating this new reality, federal workers face uncertainty—not just in their day-to-day duties, but in how their contributions are perceived and celebrated. The question now is, can acknowledgment remain sincere or is it just another battleground in a divided capital?