WASHINGTON, D.C. (Rajeev Sharma): Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, former President Donald Trump has reportedly seized the moment to accelerate a plan aimed at downsizing the federal workforce and cutting funding to programs linked with Democratic-led states.
In a move seen by many as both strategic and politically charged, Trump has consulted with Budget Director Russ Vought to explore avenues for long-term cost-cutting measures. Among the options being considered are permanent layoffs and suspension of funding for key infrastructure and energy projects in opposition-led regions.
The shutdown, triggered by a breakdown in budget negotiations between Republicans and Democrats, has created a vacuum in government operations. Instead of pushing for a swift resolution, Trump appears to be leveraging the pause in funding as an opportunity to reshape government spending priorities.
According to officials familiar with the matter, Trump has endorsed plans to eliminate financial support for major initiatives supported by Democratic leaders, including transit upgrades in New York and climate-related programs across several states. The aim, insiders say, is not only to reduce expenditure but also to sideline political opponents by choking funds to their signature projects.
The former president has also voiced support for broader reforms that would give future administrations greater control over hiring and firing within the civil service — a step critics warn could undermine the independence of government institutions.
On social media, Trump praised the budget impasse as a “rare chance” to recalibrate how Washington works. He also signaled support for a policy blueprint that advocates for centralizing executive power and scaling back the influence of federal agencies, aligning with his prior agenda of dismantling parts of what he has called the “deep state.”
While supporters claim this approach reflects fiscal responsibility and governance reform, opponents accuse Trump of exploiting the shutdown to settle political scores. Democratic leaders have condemned the delay in funding critical public services, calling it a reckless stunt with real consequences for federal workers and communities relying on government programs.
Meanwhile, legal experts have raised concerns about the long-term impact of bypassing congressional oversight to enforce such sweeping changes. Several lawsuits are reportedly in preparation to challenge the legality of potential job terminations and targeted defunding, especially if carried out during a funding lapse.
As the deadlock continues with no immediate breakthrough in sight, federal employees remain in limbo, and pressure grows on both parties to find common ground. But for Trump and his allies, the shutdown has become more than a funding crisis — it’s now a tool for restructuring power in Washington.
