Frequently Asked Questions Policy on Political Appointees

Yes.

One of OPM’s most important roles by law is to uphold the merit system principles and help agencies conduct fair and open competition for Federal jobs in order to comply with applicable civil service laws and regulations.  OPM leadership is committed to upholding these principles every day of every year.  Therefore, in 2010, OPM expanded its oversight to safeguard Federal hiring from political influence.  The revised policy is also in line with recommendations from the Government Accountability Office.

No.  OPM will continue to conduct merit staffing reviews first, followed by the Qualifications Review Board.

Yes.  OPM will review initial appointments that may lead to non-competitive conversion.

Yes.  To comply with the reporting requirements of the Transitions Act, OPM will now review proposed direct hire appointments of current or former political appointees to permanent Federal civil service positions.  This action is a change from OPM’s previous policy.