President Donald Trump has intensified his stance amid the prolonged government shutdown, pledging to eliminate “Democrat programs” while maintaining funding for the US military.
The announcement has stirred political tensions as the deadlock in Congress continues.
Trump told reporters Tuesday that Democrats were “getting killed” over the shutdown, claiming that several of their favored programs would be permanently closed.
He said a list of programs targeted for cuts may be released as early as Friday, though he stopped short of sharing specifics. “Republican programs” would remain safe, he added.
The president has already halted or redirected $28 billion in federal funds intended for infrastructure and energy initiatives in Democrat-leaning states such as California, Illinois, and New York.
4,200 federal positions eliminated
According to the White House, about 4,200 employees from eight government departments received “reduction-in-force notices” last Friday. Major job cuts have occurred at the Treasury Department, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Among the affected offices is the Treasury Department’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, which supports low-income communities — a move drawing bipartisan concern.
While tens of thousands of federal employees remain furloughed, the White House confirmed that $8 billion in existing funds will be reallocated to ensure military and Coast Guard personnel continue receiving pay during the shutdown.
Historically, military staff have also worked unpaid during shutdowns until funds are reimbursed once operations resume.
Senate stalemate deepens
The Senate remains at an impasse over a spending bill to end the shutdown. A Republican proposal that would have extended government funding through November 21 failed to pass on Monday, with a 49–45 vote split largely along party lines.
Currently, approximately 750,000 federal workers remain furloughed without pay, while “essential” employees continue their duties in the hope of future compensation.
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