The Trump administration has initiated measures that strip collective bargaining rights from thousands of federal workers, particularly targeting employees at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Starting on August 25, 2025, HHS began cutting off collective bargaining rights for its staff, a move described by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) national president Everett Kelley as "illegal and immoral." The EPA has ended all but one of its collective bargaining agreements and now requires prior approval for any union activity, even during non-duty time. These actions have prompted widespread criticism from labor unions and Democratic lawmakers who argue that the administration's policies undermine workers' rights and public safety. In response, labor leaders and politicians, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have been actively campaigning and rallying support for workers' rights, with Sanders joining Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner for a Labor Day rally in Portland. Platner, who is challenging Republican Senator Susan Collins, emphasizes fighting for the working class and criticizes Democratic leadership for candidate selections. The AFL-CIO has also been vocal in opposing the administration's union-busting efforts, organizing events to support workers and highlight the importance of unions in protecting fair wages, benefits, and workplace safety. Meanwhile, the Trump administration defends its reforms, with Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins citing improvements in veteran care and reduced wait times as evidence of the administration's commitment to serving veterans. The ongoing conflict highlights a broader struggle over labor rights and union influence within the federal workforce amid the Trump administration's regulatory changes.