US Govt Shutdown Showdown: Trump Targets Mass Firings in Escalating Standoff

The Trump administration is escalating shutdown planning, with the White House budget office directing agencies to prepare mass firings if Congress misses the September 30 funding deadline. Unlike past furloughs, the OMB memo targets programs not legally required, calling for permanent job cuts inconsistent with Trump’s priorities. Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, slammed the move as intimidation. The standoff centers on extending ACA subsidies, which Republicans reject. Trump canceled talks with Democrats, branding their demands “insane.” OMB has yet to release full shutdown contingency plans.