EXPLAINERNews|Donald TrumpHow much extra power would a government shutdown give Trump?Trump could use executive power to reshape federal agencies and force layoffs during a shutdown, experts say.
The impending federal government shutdown, scheduled for Sun, Oct 1, 2025, is the result of ongoing negotiations between the Republican and Democratic parties in the United States. The primary contention involves the renewal of subsidies for the…
The impending federal government shutdown, scheduled for Sun, Oct 1, 2025, is the result of ongoing negotiations between the Republican and Democratic parties in the United States. The primary contention involves the renewal of subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, which Democrats argue are essential for maintaining affordable insurance for millions of enrollees. Additionally, Democrats seek to reverse recent Medicaid cuts enacted by President Donald Trump.
Republicans are advocating for a temporary extension of federal spending at current levels without additional provisions. In the event of a government shutdown, President Trump's administration may seek to leverage executive power, as demonstrated by the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) recent actions under Russell Vought. These actions include canceling foreign aid and withholding domestic spending.
The Trump administration has implemented workforce reductions, decreasing the federal workforce by approximately 200,000 employees, with projections to increase to 300,000 by the end of the year. The OMB has issued guidance to agency heads, suggesting the consideration of "reduction in force" notices for employees whose programs do not align with the President's priorities or lack mandatory funding.
The administration has not mandated layoffs but has indicated potential reductions contingent upon congressional funding decisions. This approach signals the potential for further reductions in the size of the federal government.
Additionally, Democrats seek to reverse recent Medicaid cuts enacted by President Donald Trump.
During a shutdown, mandatory spending, including Social Security and Medicare, will continue. Essential services such as border protection, medical care, air traffic control, and law enforcement will remain operational. However, disruptions may occur, as seen during previous shutdowns when TSA staff and air traffic controllers faced challenges.
The administration retains discretion in defining "essential" workers, impacting the availability of certain services. The Trump administration is expected to continue its focus on priorities like immigration enforcement while potentially reducing funding for other areas.
Historically, there have been four significant shutdowns lasting more than one business day, as noted by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. As negotiations continue, the potential impacts on federal operations and workforce remain a critical concern for stakeholders.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.