Federal Worker Layoffs Deepen Amid Ongoing Shutdown

The White House budget office confirmed that mass firings of federal workers have begun, escalating tensions in the ongoing government shutdown. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought announced that “reductions in force” were underway, signaling a push to shrink the federal workforce and apply pressure on Congress.

Early reports indicate that layoffs have reached the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, with additional cuts expected across other agencies. The American Federation of Government Employees has filed a lawsuit, calling the firings an illegal abuse of power and asking a federal judge to intervene.

This move marks a sharp departure from standard shutdown procedures, which typically result in temporary furloughs rather than permanent job losses. Lawmakers on both sides have criticized the administration’s approach, warning that it undermines public service and deepens the political standoff.

As the shutdown enters its tenth day, Congress remains divided over funding and healthcare provisions, while thousands of federal employees face uncertainty about their jobs and livelihoods.

Read the full article from the Billings Gazette