Breaking News: White House Begins Threatened Mass Federal Layoffs
The Trump administration has started to lay off federal workers as part of its threatened mass layoffs amid the government shutdown, according to budget chief Russ Vought's statement on X on Friday. The Office of Management and Budget confirmed that the reductions in force (RIFs) have begun, with substantial layoffs expected.
Timeline:
October 10, 2025: President Trump returns to the White House following a visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Government shutdown extends at least until Tuesday, when the Senate is scheduled to vote on a spending plan.
The Health and Human Services Department confirmed that layoffs have hit the agency.
Immediate Impact:
Federal workers are being laid off as part of the RIFs, with the exact number of affected employees unclear. The layoffs come amid the ongoing government shutdown, which has entered its second week. Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked on a spending plan to reopen the government.
Background Context:
The Trump administration had threatened mass layoffs if Congress did not agree to its budget demands. President Trump warned that he would punish Democrats for refusing to vote for the Republican-backed spending plan.
What Happens Next:
As the government shutdown continues, lawmakers are expected to return to Capitol Hill on Tuesday for a Senate vote on a spending plan. The outcome of this vote will determine whether the layoffs continue and when the government may reopen.
*This story is developing. Information compiled from Forbes reporting.*
