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Massive terminations of US federal workers have begun, as Republican legislators apply influence on Democratic counterparts to resolve a government shutdown. The White House budget office described the layoffs as “substantial,” with labor groups for federal workers bringing the issue to litigation. The chief executive commented that the employment cuts “are going to be a lot” and suggested that those losing jobs would be in areas that were “leaning Democratic.”

Administration Announces Government Employee Layoffs

The White House announced staff cuts of government employees on the end of the week, making good on a threat it had issued in response to the federal closure, which now appears likely to extend into a third straight week. The director of the administration's office of budget management wrote on online platforms that “RIFs have started,” referring to the federal procedure to let employees go.

Chief Executive Threatens 100% China Tariffs

The US president has vowed to enact additional American import taxes of one hundred percent on China from next month, charging the Chinese government of “extremely aggressive” moves to limit shipments of rare earths required for American industry. Wall Street fell sharply after the US president reignited public tensions with the Chinese government, and raised the prospect of a further contentious commercial conflict between the world’s two largest economies.

National Guard Forces Spotted on Memphis Streets

National guard soldiers were observed monitoring in the Tennessee city for the initial occasion on the weekend's eve, as part of the administration's controversial federal taskforce, amid intense legal challenges as he was prevented from deploying troops to Chicago and a court ruling was awaited in the Oregon city.

MIT Rejects White House Proposal to Revamp Procedures

The MIT has become the initial US university to officially turn down a presidential proposal that would overhaul university guidelines in return for priority entry to government money.

Administration Criticizes Perceived Peace Award Snub

The executive office has denounced the peace prize panel's decision to award the Nobel peace prize to a candidate besides the president. “The Nobel committee proved they prioritize political motives over harmony,” wrote a presidential advisor and head of public relations.

What Else Happened This Day:

• The chief executive had what he has characterized as a “semiannual physical” at the military national military medical center.
• Up to 40 American professors have been fired or disciplined after conservative campaigns targeted their comments on an assassination, creating a “atmosphere of anxiety” on university grounds.
• Prominent NY Democrats have rallied behind a state official a day after she was indicted on mortgage fraud charges by a federal prosecutor selected by the administration.