😱 A federal judge has just hit pause on President Trump’s plan to lay off thousands of federal workers in the middle of the ongoing US government shutdown, now in week three. US District Judge Susan Illston ruled that the administration skipped key legal steps and even seemed to use the layoffs for political gain, pointing to public statements from President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and budget director Russ Vought.
Meanwhile, over 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers have been working on partial paychecks, and they could see nothing later this month if the standoff continues. ✈️ The result? More sick calls, thousands of flight delays and mounting safety concerns. Chris Sununu, CEO of Airlines for America, warned that 'most people can survive a couple of paychecks, but after three weeks, that puts real strain on the system.'
But it’s not just airports feeling the burn. Museums, zoos and major attractions in Washington, D.C., remain closed, leaving tourists 😞. On the homefront, a Redfin report shows 17 percent of Americans have hit pause on big purchases like homes and cars. Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather warned that rental prices could climb, but 'declining affordability will also be a problem.'
Food assistance is at risk too. About 7 million low-income Americans relying on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children are watching their benefits run low 🍽️. Food banks report a wave of first-time visitors seeking help.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the shutdown is slicing roughly $15 billion off the US economy every day 💸. His message? Congress needs to find a solution ASAP before things get any worse.
Reference(s):
Judge blocks Trump's layoff plan as U.S. shutdown enters third week
cgtn.com
