Story perspectives

Congress Fails to Fund, Trump Prepares for Layoffs

9/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Imminent shutdown as Congress misses the September 30 funding deadline.
Trump directs agencies to prepare for permanent layoffs in unfunded programs.
Essential services like Social Security and Medicare will continue; many federal workers face furloughs.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has not published contingency plans, clouding which services will stay open and broader GDP impact.

History

Historical Context

The 1995-1996 U.S. government shutdown lasted 21 days, impacting 800,000 federal employees and costing the economy approximately $1.4 billion. This shutdown stemmed from a funding deadlock over budget cuts during President Bill Clinton's administration. Today, Congress faces similar challenges, risking furloughs for federal workers and potentially eroding public trust in government efficiency and essential services like Social Security and Medicare.

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Story summary

Imminent shutdown as Congress misses the September 30 funding deadline.
Trump directs agencies to prepare for permanent layoffs in unfunded programs.
Essential services like Social Security and Medicare will continue; many federal workers face furloughs.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has not published contingency plans, clouding which services will stay open and broader GDP impact.

1 / 2