Federal Worker Layoffs Begin as Government Shutdown Enters Eleventh Day

The Trump administration began implementing layoffs of federal workers today, October 10, 2025, as the partial government shutdown stretched into its eleventh day with no immediate resolution in sight.

The layoffs impact numerous agencies, though the exact number of employees affected remains unclear. Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, signaled the start of the reductions in force (RIFs) earlier today, stating that “the RIFs have begun.” This action comes amid a continuing deadlock between Congress and the White House over funding for a border wall, the primary cause of the shutdown. The disruption in federal services is already impacting a range of programs, from national park operations to food safety inspections.

Congressional leaders expressed outrage at the administration’s decision. Several members of Congress described the layoffs as a “disaster,” and criticized the White House for using federal employees as leverage in the funding dispute. The shutdown is affecting approximately 800,000 federal employees, many of whom have been furloughed without pay. For more information on the effects of government shutdowns, see the USA.gov resource page.

The administration maintains that it is working to minimize the impact of the shutdown, but insists that Congress must approve funding for the border wall. Negotiations are expected to continue, though a breakthrough appears unlikely in the short term. This situation highlights the growing challenges of navigating federal budget impasses and their consequences for public services.

Officials stated they will continue to assess the situation and make further decisions regarding staffing levels as the shutdown continues.