Government Shutdown Warning from White House
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt has issued a caution regarding potential government shutdowns, indicating that they could result in thousands of federal layoffs.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Leavitt noted that the layoffs “are likely to be thousands.” She emphasized that these discussions and decisions are critical, adding that these meetings only take place if Democrats choose to keep the government operational.
“This is a very good question. That’s something the entire management and budget office and the White House team here, unfortunately, needs to be addressed today,” she explained.
Further details emerged on Wednesday, with reports suggesting that Russell Vought, director of the Management and Budget Office (OMB), has indicated that federal layoffs might begin within a “one or two” timeframe.
The specific federal agencies affected remain uncertain. However, Vought had circulated an internal memo last week, indicating that preparations for a shutdown were underway if Democrats pursued specific actions.
He has also instructed federal agencies to issue “Reducing the Power of All Employees (RIF) Notices,” particularly targeting programs seen as misaligned with the President’s priorities.
On Thursday, President Donald Trump shared a post, detailing a meeting with Vought to evaluate which “Democrat institutions” might face budget cuts, and whether these cuts would be temporary or more permanent.
“I have a meeting today with Rus Verto, the fame of Project 2025. I’ll decide which of the many Democratic institutions is political fraud. He recommends cutting,” Trump conveyed.
He added, “I can’t believe that radical left-wing Democrats have given me this unprecedented opportunity. They’re not stupid people, so this is how I hope to make America great again, quietly and quickly!”
The Senate recently failed to approve a continuing resolution to fund the government, leading to a temporary halt affecting approximately 40% of federal workers, which accounts for about 750,000 employees.
While Republicans control the Senate, they lack the 60 votes needed to pass the ongoing resolution, as Senate Democrats are actively negotiating to roll back some of Trump’s previous spending cuts.
