The White House is instructing federal agencies to prepare for mass firings if a government shutdown occurs on September 30th. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo directs agencies to target programs not legally mandated, prioritizing President Trump's agenda. This represents a departure from past shutdown responses and escalates the standoff with Democrats over funding. Democrats demand concessions, including ACA subsidies, while Republicans seek a "clean" extension. The OMB calls the Democrats' position "insane." The threat of mass job losses intensifies the funding battle, with critics calling the plan an act of self-harm and extortion.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.