The White House budget office has announced the start of federal workforce reductions, aiming to put pressure on Democratic lawmakers amidst the ongoing government shutdown.
Russ Vought, head of the Office of Management and Budget, stated on social media that “RIFs have begun,” referring to plans to reduce the size of the federal government. A spokesperson for the budget office confirmed that the reductions are “substantial.”
The White House signaled its intention to pursue these layoffs before the shutdown began on October 1st, instructing federal agencies to submit reduction plans to the budget office. These plans target programs that lack funding, are inconsistent with the President’s priorities, or would see funding lapse during a shutdown.
The President had indicated earlier in the week that significant job cuts were possible if the shutdown continued.
Meanwhile, Congress remains at an impasse, with both the House and Senate out of Washington. Senate Republicans have urged Democrats to support a temporary bill to reopen the government, but Democrats are holding firm, demanding a guarantee of extended health care benefits.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has called on moderate Democrats to break ranks and support Republican efforts to end the shutdown.
