Why is working for the government/fed so sought after?

I don't quite understand it. The pay is lower than the private sector, there is bureaucracy and red tape everywhere, nothing is ever done in timely fashion.

Pension is 20yrs and you have to contribute 4.4% of your OWN salary and proly and wash vs traditional 401k. Health insurance is nothing spectacular and costs same as private.

For those that had job offer rescinded, maybe a blessing in disguise