Federal Workforce Cuts Loom as Government Shutdown Continues

Thu Nov 27 2025 23:15:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Vice President JD Vance warns of significant layoffs for federal employees as the government shutdown extends, putting thousands at risk of furloughs. While efforts are made to preserve military pay and low-income assistance, tensions rise between party lines amid ongoing stalemate negotiations.

In the wake of the ongoing government shutdown, Vice President JD Vance has indicated that deeper cuts to the federal workforce will occur as the impasse continues, stating that the longer the shutdown lasts, the more painful the consequences will be for federal employees. As over 4,000 federal workers face potential firings, Vance argues that Democrats are largely responsible for the situation. Meanwhile, Republicans continue to push for reopening the government before negotiations on health subsidies begin.

Vice President JD Vance on Sunday expressed concern over imminent additional cuts to the federal workforce as the government shutdown extends, now entering its 12th day. He stated that without a resolution, the situation for hundreds of thousands of furloughed workers grows increasingly precarious.

During an appearance on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Vance warned that prolonged shutdown conditions would compel the administration to implement 'painful' cuts, despite efforts underway to ensure military personnel are compensated. The administration has also committed to preserving certain services for low-income Americans, including food assistance.

Reports indicate that over 4,000 federal employees are at risk of termination related to the shutdown, with Vance acknowledging that the impending firings will affect various departments including Education, Treasury, and Homeland Security. He asserted, The longer this goes on, the deeper the cuts are going to be, attributing blame for the impasse primarily to Democratic lawmakers.

Efforts to negotiate a resolution appear to have stalled, with House leaders from both parties exchanging accusations of inaction. The shutdown began after Democrats rejected a temporary funding measure that did not extend health insurance subsidies as demanded.

In light of these developments, key Democratic leaders assert that the firings are unnecessary and illegal, with Senate Democrats urging for a more collaborative approach to address the shutdown crisis without harming vulnerable groups.

As uncertainty looms over the federal workforce, the divide between parties deepens, highlighting the ongoing struggle regarding funding priorities and the operational challenges faced by the administration amidst the current federal funding dilemma.