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Widespread firings of US federal employees have commenced, as Republican legislators work to exert influence on Democratic officials to resolve a federal closure. The White House budget office characterized the reductions as “substantial,” with labor groups for federal workers taking the issue to litigation. The president commented that the employment cuts “are going to be a lot” and suggested that affected positions would be in regions that were “Democrat oriented.”

Administration Declares Government Employee Reductions

The White House announced layoffs 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 stretch into a consecutive third week. The head of the White House office of management and budget wrote on social media that “RIFs have begun,” indicating the federal procedure to terminate staff.

President Warns 100% Chinese Tariffs

The US president has vowed to enact additional American tariffs of 100% on China from the coming month, charging Beijing of “extremely aggressive” actions to restrict exports of minerals needed for US manufacturing. Wall Street fell significantly after the American leader rekindled public tensions with the Beijing administration, and raised the possibility of another contentious trade war between the planet's biggest economies.

National Guard Troops Seen on City Streets

National guard soldiers were seen patrolling in the Tennessee city for the first time on Friday, as part of the president's disputed federal taskforce, amid intense court battles as he was blocked from sending forces to Chicago and a judicial decision was pending in the Oregon city.

University Declines Administration Plan to Overhaul Policies

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has emerged as the first US university to formally turn down a executive proposal that would restructure university policies in return for priority access to federal funding.

White House Slams Perceived Peace Award Snub

The executive office has condemned the Norwegian Nobel committee's decision to grant the prestigious award to someone other than the US leader. “The Nobel committee proved they prioritize politics over peace,” stated a presidential aide and head of communications.

What Else Occurred This Day:

• The president underwent what he has characterized as a “biannual physical” at the Walter Reed health facility.
• As many as 40 American professors have been fired or disciplined after rightwing efforts targeted their comments on an assassination, creating a “atmosphere of fear” on campuses.
• Prominent NY Democrats have rallied behind a public figure a day after she was charged on mortgage fraud allegations by a federal prosecutor selected by the president.