Trump Administration Begins Federal Layoffs as Government Shutdown Deepens

WASHINGTON, D.C. - October 10, 2025 - As the federal government shutdown stretches into its second week, President Donald Trump has initiated mass layoffs of federal workers, marking a dramatic escalation in the budget standoff with congressional Democrats. The move breaks with precedent, as past shutdowns typically resulted in temporary furloughs rather than permanent reductions in force.

Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), confirmed the action Friday with a post on X: "The RIFs have begun," referencing the formal term for layoffs in federal agencies.

Layoffs Begin Amid Stalemate

The White House has not disclosed how many employees are affected or which agencies are targeted, but officials described the layoffs as "substantial." The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that employees across multiple divisions received notices, citing the shutdown as the direct cause.

Historically, shutdowns have led to furloughs-temporary unpaid leave for nonessential workers-with back pay issued once funding resumes. This time, however, the Trump administration is pursuing permanent layoffs, citing a broader effort to downsize government operations and eliminate what it calls "wasteful and duplicative entities".

Political Tensions and Legal Pushback

The shutdown began October 1 after Senate Democrats and Republicans failed to agree on competing spending bills. Democrats have demanded extensions to Affordable Care Act subsidies, while Republicans have refused to negotiate until the government reopens.

Unions representing federal employees have condemned the layoffs and signaled potential legal challenges. The AFL-CIO posted on X, "America's unions will see you in court," in response to the administration's actions.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) acknowledged the gravity of the situation: "Now that people are missing paychecks, this gets real," he said Friday. "Decisions will have to be made about which agencies and employees are impacted".

Alabama Impact and Outlook

With over 750,000 federal workers furloughed nationwide, the implications for Alabama-home to major federal installations like Redstone Arsenal, Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, and the Anniston Army Depot-could be significant. Many of these facilities rely on civilian federal employees for logistics, research, and support services.

As the shutdown continues, Alabama families and communities tied to federal employment may face growing uncertainty. The administration has not ruled out further layoffs if Congress fails to reach a funding agreement.