The CIA offered buyouts to its entire workforce, allowing employees to leave with about eight months of pay, aligning with Trump’s push to downsize the federal government and refocus intelligence efforts.

The agency is freezing hiring and may rescind job offers that don’t fit new priorities, including targeting drug cartels and spying on China.

The move signals to those opposing Trump’s agenda to leave, while Director John Ratcliffe aims for a more aggressive CIA.

The agency’s focus is shifting toward the Western Hemisphere, potentially spying on Mexico for trade leverage, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

Some intelligence officers welcomed Trump’s approach, while others questioned the legality of the buyouts.

Written by B.C. Begley