The federal workforce purge begins

The Trump administration began large-scale firings of federal workers this week as part of an aggressive strategy to pressure Democrats during the ongoing government shutdown, marking one of the most sweeping workforce purges in modern U.S. history.

According to the Office of Management and Budget, “substantial” layoffs are underway across at least seven federal departments, including Treasury, Health and Human Services, Education, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Early estimates suggest more than 4,000 employees are being terminated under “reduction in force” (RIF) procedures, with thousands more facing potential dismissal if the budget impasse continues.

The RIFs have begun.

— Russ Vought (@russvought) October 10, 2025

The White House framed the move as a necessary step to “restore accountability” and eliminate “politically motivated obstruction” within the federal bureaucracy. OMB Director Russ Vought confirmed the action publicly, posting, “The RIFs have begun.” Administration officials argue that many affected positions are tied to programs misaligned with the president’s priorities.

Critics, including labor unions and civil service advocates, have called the firings unlawful and politically driven. The American Federation of Government Employees and other unions plan to challenge the dismissals in court, citing violations of due process and long-standing federal employment protections. Even Congressional politicians are joining the conversation.

While few details have been shared about Russell Vought’s latest layoffs, there is no question this is poorly timed and yet another example of this administration’s punitive actions toward the federal workforce. The termination of federal employees in a shutdown will further hurt…

— Sen. Lisa Murkowski (@lisamurkowski) October 10, 2025

The cuts go far beyond typical furloughs associated with past shutdowns, raising questions about service disruptions, long-term staffing gaps, and the precedent it sets for future administrations. Analysts warn that permanent layoffs could cripple key agencies and deepen dysfunction in an already strained federal system.

The government remains in partial shutdown as negotiations over a funding bill stall on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, confusion continues over whether terminated employees will receive retroactive pay once the shutdown ends — an issue that could soon add another legal battle to the widening crisis.