Trump wasn't the first president to try to politicize the civil service – which remains at risk of returning to Jackson's 'spoils system'
- Written by Barry M. Mitnick, Professor of Business Administration and of Public and International Affairs, University of Pittsburgh

The federal government’s core civilian workforce has long been known for its professionalism. About 2.1 million nonpartisan career officials provide essential public services in such diverse areas as agriculture, national parks,...