A growing number of congressional Democrats are raising concerns over the potential for mass layoffs of federal employees amid an ongoing government shutdown. The situation escalated after Senate Democrats rejected a House-passed resolution aimed at keeping the government open, prompting anger and frustration among lawmakers.

At a Capitol Hill press conference, several House Democrats criticized former President Donald Trump for suggesting it would be easier to cut the federal workforce during a shutdown. Representative Sarah Elfreth of Maryland called the remarks offensive and assured federal employees in her state of support from Democratic leaders.

Trump has used the shutdown, dubbed the “Schumer Shutdown” by critics, to advance a broader plan to downsize government. He praised his budget director’s actions to curtail federal spending, including pausing infrastructure projects such as New York’s subway and Hudson Tunnel initiatives—both major priorities for Senate and House Democratic leadership.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that layoffs could be imminent, going beyond temporary furloughs typically associated with funding lapses. Budget Director Russ Vought echoed that message in a private call with House Republicans, saying staff cuts could begin within days, heightening anxiety across federal agencies.

The shutdown, now in its second day, shows no signs of resolution. Congressional inaction has given the White House significant influence over the situation. Analysts warn that the longer the impasse lasts, the greater the financial and operational toll, with an estimated 750,000 federal employees potentially furloughed, costing around $400 million in lost wages daily.

While Democrats continue to push for increased healthcare funding, including extending subsidies and Medicaid support, Republican leaders argue those discussions can wait. With Congress on a brief recess, further negotiations are delayed, leaving the duration and consequences of the shutdown uncertain.