White House Warns Federal Layoffs Could Be Imminent

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Friday that layoffs within the federal workforce are looming, framing it as part of President Trump’s broader push to reduce the size and role of government.

Image Source: City Journal

“Unfortunately, because the Democrats shut down the government, the president has directed his Cabinet, along with the Office of Management and Budget, to identify areas where cuts can be made,” Leavitt said.

She emphasized: “We believe that layoffs are imminent. They are, unfortunately, a consequence of this government shutdown.”

Traditionally, government shutdowns have led to furloughs or unpaid work rather than mass layoffs. Even during Trump’s first term, large-scale workforce reductions did not follow shutdowns.

Leavitt did not specify how many employees could be affected but noted that the cuts could begin “very soon.” Source: UnusualWhales