09/25/2025
Unprecedented Move Escalates Political Stakes as Deadline Approaches
The White House has taken an unprecedented step that could permanently eliminate thousands of federal jobs if Congress fails to prevent a government shutdown next week. In a dramatic escalation of political brinkmanship, the Trump administration is demanding agencies prepare mass firing plans - not just temporary furloughs - for workers deemed inconsistent with presidential priorities.
This isn't your typical shutdown threat. Unlike previous government closures where furloughed workers eventually returned with back pay, the Office of Management and Budget memo obtained by multiple news outlets explicitly calls for "reduction in force" plans that would permanently eliminate positions across federal agencies.
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
The memo, released Wednesday night, represents a sharp departure from traditional shutdown protocols.
White House demands agencies prepare mass firing plans for federal workers as government shutdown looms. Democrats call it intimidation.
