A Welcome Holiday Surprise
President Trump just delivered an early Christmas present to federal employees. On Thursday, he signed an executive order declaring both Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas as federal holidays for this year. That means most government workers will get a rare five-day weekend from Wednesday through Sunday.
This is bigger than the usual holiday treatment. Presidents typically give workers either the day before or after Christmas off. Getting both days? That’s pretty uncommon.
“All executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed and their employees excused from duty on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, and Friday, December 26, 2025, the day before and the day following Christmas Day, respectively,” the order states.
Why This Matters to Limited Government Folks
Now, you might wonder why conservatives who favor smaller government should care about federal workers getting more time off. Here’s the thing: this move actually aligns with conservative principles in several ways.
First, it shows respect for family values and religious traditions. Christmas is an important time for American families. Giving workers time to be with their loved ones reinforces traditional values that conservatives hold dear.
Second, and perhaps more importantly, this puts government workers on par with many private sector employees. Lots of businesses give their workers extended time off during the holidays. Why shouldn’t federal employees get the same treatment?
Think about it this way. When government offices are closed, they’re not making new regulations. They’re not spending taxpayer money on new programs. They’re simply giving hardworking Americans time with their families.
Not Everyone Gets the Break
Trump made sure to include an important caveat in his order. Agency heads can decide if certain offices need to stay open. Essential workers in national security, defense, and other critical areas might still need to report for duty.
This makes sense. We can’t just shut down everything.
Air traffic controllers, border patrol agents, and military personnel still need to keep America safe during the holidays. The order gives agency leaders the flexibility to make smart decisions about who’s truly essential.
The Office of Personnel Management will handle implementing the directive. They’ll work out the details for different work schedules and ensure essential services continue.
Historical Context Shows Balance
Looking back, this isn’t completely unprecedented. During his first term, Trump gave federal workers Christmas Eve off in 2018, 2019, and 2020. President Obama gave workers the day after Christmas off when it fell on a Friday in 2014. Even President Biden gave workers Christmas Eve off last year.
What makes this year special is getting both days. The last time Christmas fell on a Thursday like this year was 2014. Back then, Obama only gave Friday off. Workers still had to come in on Christmas Eve Wednesday.
Looking Ahead
This executive order only applies to 2025. It’s not a permanent change. Future presidents will decide whether to continue this tradition or go back to giving just one day off.
For conservatives, this represents the kind of executive leadership we appreciate. It’s a president using his authority to benefit American workers without creating new bureaucracy or spending programs. It’s temporary, targeted, and respects both workers and taxpayers.
After all, a government that’s closed for the holidays can’t overreach into our lives. That’s something every limited government conservative can celebrate this Christmas season.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
