Shutdown standoff: AI "memes," layoff threats, and what federal workers should know
The White House defended President Donald Trump's use of AI-generated videos during the shutdown while signaling potential federal layoffs and cuts to what it calls "Democratic agencies." One video depicted Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought as the "Grim Reaper"; another mocked House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries with a "TRUMP 2028" hat. Earlier in the week, an AI video portraying Jeffries with a fake mustache and a sombrero drew criticism; Jeffries called it "racist" and "bigoted."
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration "likes to have a little fun," but framed layoffs as "tough decisions" in service of fiscal goals. She did not say whether layoffs would happen after the shutdown ends. Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the memes as trolling Democrats, while arguing the underlying budget choices are serious.
Key developments
- President Trump posted AI videos featuring Vought as the "Grim Reaper" and a clip trolling Jeffries.
- Vought announced withholding federal funds for transit projects in Chicago, after similar moves affecting New York and New Jersey.
- Jeffries said Republicans "were clearly determined to shut the government down," calling the president's behavior "unhinged."
- Leavitt said layoffs can be both an "opportunity" and an "unfortunate consequence," asserting a focus on "fiscal sanity."
- Johnson said the president is "trolling the Democrats," but insisted the decisions "are tough" and affect "real people."
Legal backdrop: Who can cut agencies or jobs?
Legal experts note that only Congress can eliminate federal agencies or authorize broad structural cuts. The White House has not provided details on the legal basis for threatened layoffs during or after the shutdown, nor how firing unpaid employees would reduce waste. For reference on funding constraints, see GAO's overview of the Antideficiency Act.
GAO: Antideficiency Act (overview)
What this means for federal employees
If you are furloughed or excepted, rely on official agency communications-not social media posts-for your status and instructions. Shutdowns pause pay for many employees, but back pay has historically followed after funding resumes. Threats of immediate mass layoffs are uncommon during shutdowns; reductions in force (RIFs) follow separate statutory and regulatory processes.
OPM provides guidance on furlough status, benefits, and rights. Bookmark agency HR bulletins and OPM directives for any changes. Document instructions from supervisors, keep timesheets accurate, and save official emails.
Steps to protect yourself and your team
- Confirm your duty status daily via your agency's official channels (email, portal, or hotline).
- Request written guidance for any new tasking or schedule changes during the shutdown.
- Review RIF and furlough policies with HR; understand appeal and grievance pathways.
- Track pay, benefits, and leave impacts; verify TSP loan or hardship options if needed.
- Coordinate with your union (if applicable) for representation and contract-specific protections.
- Use agency-approved communications; avoid commenting on internal operations from personal accounts.
AI "memes" and deepfakes: How to keep your footing
Expect more synthetic media during high-stakes negotiations. Treat viral clips as theater unless your agency confirms operational impacts. If a post references your program or funding, wait for written guidance from OMB, your CFO, or your agency head before taking action.
- Verify source accounts and timestamps; watch for edits, artifacts, and out-of-context audio.
- Follow your agency's social media and misinformation policies; escalate questionable content to comms or counsel.
If you want structured upskilling on AI, misinformation, and verification workflows, see this curated list of training resources: Latest AI courses.
What to watch next
- Any formal OMB directives to agencies on cuts or RIF planning beyond standard shutdown posture.
- Congressional negotiations tied to agency funding, rescissions, or reorganization authorities.
- Clarifications from the White House on the legality and timing of proposed layoffs after the shutdown.
Bottom line: memes are loud; policy is slow. Until you see official written directives through your agency, keep executing your shutdown playbook and document everything.
