Government Shutdown Enters Day 10: Stalemate Deepens, Federal Firings Begin
- Richard Sykes
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
Washington, D.C. — As of Friday, October 10, 2025, the United States federal government remains partially shut down for the tenth consecutive day, with no resolution in sight. The impasse between congressional Republicans and Democrats has intensified, leading to significant disruptions across federal agencies and growing public frustration.
Senate Gridlock Continues
Efforts to pass competing funding bills have failed for the seventh time, with the Senate rejecting both Republican and Democratic proposals on Thursday. The Republican-backed bill, which aimed to extend government funding through November 21, fell short of the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster.1 2 With the Senate now adjourned until Tuesday, the shutdown is guaranteed to stretch into next week.2 3
Mass Federal Firings Begin
In a dramatic escalation, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) confirmed that “reduction-in-force” (RIF) plans have been activated. OMB Director Russ Vought announced that “mass firings” of federal employees have begun, describing the cuts as “substantial”.4 5 6 The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), representing over 800,000 federal workers, condemned the move as “disgraceful” and “illegal,” accusing the Trump administration of using workers as political pawns.4
Trump’s Position and Democratic Demands
President Donald Trump has vowed that military personnel will continue to be paid despite the shutdown. He also reiterated his intent to cut what he called “Democrat programs,” framing the shutdown as a battle over health care policy and budget priorities. 1 7 Democrats, meanwhile, are demanding concessions on health care in exchange for supporting any funding bill. 1 7
Impact on Americans
The shutdown’s effects are rippling across the country:
Federal Paychecks: With October 10 marking a scheduled payday, thousands of federal employees are facing missed or delayed wages. 8
Travel and Passports: Passport services remain operational for now, but delays are possible if the shutdown persists. 9
SNAP and Banking Services: Uncertainty looms over food assistance programs and federal banking operations, especially in regions like South Jersey.8
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