Trump Administration Layoffs Federal Workers

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* Federal Layoffs Begin: The Trump administration has begun⁢ implementing “Reductions in Force” (RIFs),meaning permanent layoffs of federal workers,due to the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. This is unusual during shutdowns, which⁣ typically involve furloughs (temporary unpaid leave).
* Vought Announces Layoffs: Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), ⁣announced the layoffs on ⁢X (formerly twitter). The OMB later confirmed they were “considerable.”
* Targeted Departments: Departments affected include Treasury, Health and Human Services, Education, ⁢Energy, Commerce, housing and‍ Urban Progress, EPA, Homeland Security, and Interior.
* Trump’s Stance: President Trump stated the layoffs would be “a lot” and “Democrat-oriented,” targeting programs favored by Democratic officials.
* Blame Game: ⁤ National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett previously warned of sharp measures and blamed Democrats for potential job losses. Senator Schumer accused Trump and Vought of deliberately causing chaos and prioritizing political goals over essential services.
* Republican Opposition: Senator Susan collins, a Republican, strongly opposed the layoffs, calling them unnecessary⁤ and harmful.
* Context: The layoffs come after ⁢a warning ‍from Kevin Hassett about taking “sharp measures” if a funding deal wasn’t reached.