Story perspectives

Unions Fight Back Against Illegal Federal Layoffs Amid Shutdown

10/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought says the administration started "reductions in force" targeting federal agencies during the government shutdown that began on October 1.
The targeted agencies include Health and Human Services and Homeland Security.
Union leaders, including Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees, condemn layoffs as illegal and harmful.
Unions are pursuing legal action, seeking a restraining order to halt the firings as the political standoff continues.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting 16 days, stemmed from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act between Congress and President Obama. Approximately 800,000 federal employees were furloughed, costing the economy an estimated $24 billion. This contentious atmosphere continues to influence labor relations today, as unions like the American Federation of Government Employees oppose perceived illegal layoffs, highlighting ongoing tensions in federal workforce negotiations.

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Story summary

Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought says the administration started "reductions in force" targeting federal agencies during the government shutdown that began on October 1.
The targeted agencies include Health and Human Services and Homeland Security.
Union leaders, including Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees, condemn layoffs as illegal and harmful.
Unions are pursuing legal action, seeking a restraining order to halt the firings as the political standoff continues.

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