‘I’m Absolutely Terrified’: How Federal Workers Are Preparing for a Possible Government Shutdown and Mass Layoffs

Federal workers across the U.S. are feeling anxious as they face the threat of a government shutdown. Many describe their emotions as “terrified” and “disoriented,” unsure of what the future holds. The deadline is fast approaching for Congress to finalize a spending package, leaving employees worried about who will work and who will be furloughed.

A memo from the White House’s budget office encourages agencies to use this time to plan for potential layoffs. This adds to the anxiety, with one worker expressing fear about facing another round of job instability. They stated, “This treatment is inhumane. Preparing for the unknown is impossible.” Many workers chose to remain anonymous, fearing retaliation from the administration.

The tension in Congress is palpable. GOP leaders and Democrats are at an impasse over funding priorities, complicating efforts to avert a shutdown. Democrats want to extend healthcare support, something Republicans oppose, emphasizing conflicting political agendas.

This potential shutdown adds another layer to a tough year for federal employees. Massive layoffs have already taken place, causing chaos in agencies. Some workers were let go and then later rehired, while others faced illegal dismissals, adding to the confusion and fear.

For some employees, the impact of a shutdown on their family life is daunting. A Department of Interior worker mentioned feelings of being “disregarded and abandoned” as they prepare to manage disruptions in pay. They plan to review their budget and pantry to brace for the worse, stating, “I’ll do my best for America until I’m told otherwise.”

The IRS has already cut its workforce by 25% this year due to layoffs and buyouts. Alex Berman, a local leader for the National Treasury Employees Union, noted that the current atmosphere creates a “constant state of fearful uncertainty.” He expressed concern that the shutdown could lead to delays in taxpayer services, affecting over 1.3 million Americans who requested tax extensions this year.

During the last government shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019, workers borrowed money and relied on community help to get by. That shutdown lasted a historic 35 days and severely impacted federal services, including air traffic control and tax processing.

As the deadline looms, air traffic controllers and correctional officers share their worries. One controller highlighted the pressure of potentially missing a paycheck in an already high-stress job. Meanwhile, Dave Demas, a correctional officer, is considering a personal loan to manage expenses if the shutdown impacts his income. He aims to maintain his daughters’ activities despite his financial concerns.

The GSA is also feeling the strain. Employees had questions about job security during a recent meeting, but leadership didn’t address them, causing more anxiety. This uncertainty is not unique to GSA; NOAA employees are also left without clear guidance as hurricane season unfolds.

Some organizations, like the Department of Veterans Affairs, are communicating more proactively about their plans during this uncertain time. A healthcare provider there stated they were assured that medical care would continue, but concerns linger about potential layoffs in other areas.

Contract workers like Bonita Williams, who cleans offices at the State Department, worry about the uncertainty surrounding their jobs. Unlike federal employees who receive backpay after a shutdown, contractors often have no such security. “I can’t prepare; I live paycheck to paycheck,” she said, highlighting the struggles many face during these challenging times.

As the situation unfolds, federal workers are left grappling with stress and uncertainty, hoping for clarity and support from their employers and the government.

For additional context, recent studies indicate that job insecurity can lead to significant mental health challenges, affecting productivity and overall well-being (American Psychological Association, 2022). Amid political strife, federal employees find themselves at the crossroads of service and survival, demonstrating the human cost of partisan conflict.

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