Government Shutdown Looms: White House Warns of Imminent Federal Worker Layoffs

US Shutdown: White House Warns of Imminent Layoffs as Government Impasse Continues The White House announced on Wednesday that mass layoffs of US federal workers are "imminent" due to the ongoing government shutdown, which entered its second day. The warning came as lawmakers from both parties continued to trade blame for the impasse. According to Vice-President JD Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who spoke at a White House briefing on Wednesday afternoon, the layoffs could result in permanent job losses within days. "The situation is dire," said Leavitt. "We urge Congress to act swiftly to pass a spending plan that will prevent these devastating consequences." The shutdown began on Wednesday after Republicans and Democrats in Congress failed to agree on a new spending plan. With no end to the impasse in sight, lawmakers are bracing for a potentially long-term disruption to government services. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) accused Democrats of "playing politics" with the shutdown, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) countered that Republicans were "refusing to negotiate in good faith." The blame game has been ongoing since the shutdown began. The shutdown affects hundreds of thousands of federal workers, who have been placed on unpaid leave. Economists warn that the prolonged disruption could cost the US economy billions in lost output. As the standoff continues, lawmakers are set to reconvene on Friday for a vote on a spending plan. However, with no clear indication of a breakthrough, many fear that the shutdown may drag on for weeks or even months. In a statement, President Donald Trump called on Republican allies to use the shutdown as an "opportunity" to make more lasting cuts. Critics have accused him of exploiting the situation for partisan gain. The White House's warning of imminent layoffs has sparked concern among lawmakers and federal workers. As one Democratic aide noted, "This is not just a matter of politics; it's about people's livelihoods." *Reporting by Bbc.*