Trump Threatens Federal Layoffs Amid US Government Shutdown

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US President Donald Trump has reiterated his warning to fire more federal employees, following the recent government shutdown. Posting on Truth Social, Trump described the shutdown as an “unprecedented opportunity” and revealed that he is meeting with Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to discuss potential cuts in federal agencies.

“I have a meeting today with Russ Vought, he of PROJECT 2025 fame, to determine which Democrat agencies, many of which are political scams, should be cut, and whether the cuts will be temporary or permanent. I can’t believe the Radical Left Democrats gave me this unprecedented opportunity. Maybe this is their way of quietly helping us MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump wrote.

The statement comes a day after the White House indicated that federal layoffs are “imminent” due to the shutdown. A spokesperson said, “Because the Democrats shut down the government, the President has directed his cabinet, and the OMB is working with agencies to identify where cuts can be made. Layoffs are expected.”

Vice President J.D. Vance also blamed Democrats, warning that prolonged inaction could force layoffs to save money. In response, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the administration, calling it “a job-killing administration” and highlighting ongoing federal worker terminations since January.

The dispute partly revolves around healthcare subsidies, with Republicans claiming Democrats demand benefits for undocumented immigrants—a claim Democrats deny, stating they are seeking to reverse cuts affecting American citizens under the “Big Beautiful Bill” passed earlier this year.

About 750,000 federal workers have been furloughed, while many others continue to work without pay. Essential services, including border protection, law enforcement, and air-traffic control, remain operational. However, programs such as food assistance, government-funded preschools, food inspections, and national park operations may soon face disruptions. Extended shutdowns could also impact air travel as unpaid workers may not report for duty.

Although Republicans control both the Senate and House, they fall eight votes short in the Senate, where 60 votes are required to pass the funding bill. This marks the first US government shutdown in seven years, following the 35-day shutdown during Trump’s first term—the longest in US history.


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