Washington, Oct 2 (NationPress) The White House has indicated that layoffs of federal employees are “imminent” due to the government shutdown that commenced on October 1.

During a press briefing on Wednesday (local time), White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attributed the looming firings of federal workers to the Democrats, claiming the opposition party has “put us into this position.”

“Regrettably, because the Democrats have caused the government to shut down, the President has instructed his cabinet, and the Office of Management and Budget is collaborating with agencies to pinpoint where reductions can be implemented. We anticipate that layoffs are imminent,” she stated.

Vice President J.D. Vance also spoke, placing the blame on Democrats for the ongoing crisis.

“If this situation continues for a few more days, or, heaven forbid, weeks, we will have to consider layoffs. We must cut costs in certain areas to ensure essential services remain operational elsewhere,” he declared.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries responded to the threat of firings, labeling the current government as “a job-killing administration.”

“These actions reflect what the Trump administration has been pursuing since January 20, with mass layoffs of federal workers. This administration has been detrimental to job growth,” he asserted.

Republicans have accused Democrats of seeking healthcare subsidies for undocumented immigrants, a claim that Democrats refute as a falsehood propagated by the Trump administration.

Democrats argue they are advocating for the reversal of healthcare cuts impacting American citizens in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which was legislated earlier this year.

Republicans maintain that they will not concede to the demands of the Democrats and have suggested extending funding until November 21.

Despite controlling both the Senate and the House of Representatives, Republicans find themselves eight votes short in the Senate, as the funding bill necessitates 60 votes for passage.

This marks the first US government shutdown in seven years, with the previous one occurring under Trump and lasting 35 days—making it the longest in history.

While core services such as border security, law enforcement, and air traffic control remain operational, programs such as food assistance, government-funded preschool, food inspections, and national park operations could face serious disruptions.

If the shutdown extends for an extended period, air travel may encounter difficulties as many employees might be compelled to work without pay and may choose not to report for duty.