Consider This from NPR Federal workers reaffirming loyalty to the Constitution, not politics
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Oct 4, 2025 Andrea Hsu, NPR's Labor and Workplace Correspondent, sheds light on the struggles of federal workers amid government shutdowns and staff reductions. She discusses the difficulties they face in speaking out due to fears of retribution, creating a culture of silence. Hsu shares her journey in covering this workforce, revealing how she built trust with sources and why some employees, like veterans and probationary workers, were willing to go on record. The conversation highlights federal workers’ commitment to their constitutional oaths amidst political turmoil.
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Workers Recite Oath At Protest
- Federal workers at a D.C. press conference recited their oath to support the Constitution amid looming layoffs.
- They protested President Trump's threats to use the shutdown to cut federal jobs and programs.
Shutdown Used To Push Layoffs
- Andrea Hsu reports federal employees face months of cuts, firings, and program defunding under the Trump administration.
- The shutdown is being framed by the White House as an opportunity to accelerate layoffs and reshape government.
Furloughed NIH Worker Speaks Out
- Jenna Norton, furloughed from NIH, says shutdown harms programs and fires workers who support vital research.
- She warns the damages from shutdowns are already occurring even before further cuts.
