**Judge Halts Trump Administration's Layoffs During Shutdown** A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to cease layoffs during the ongoing government shutdown. U.S. District Judge Susan Illston issued the emergency ruling on Wednesday in San Francisco. This decision follows the issuance of layoff notices by federal agencies aimed at reducing the workforce as part of the administration's strategy to pressure Democratic lawmakers.

Judge Illston criticized the administration's approach, stating, "It’s very much ready, fire, aim on most of these programs, and it has a human cost. It’s a human cost that cannot be tolerated." The American Federation of Government Employees and other labor unions had requested the restraining order, arguing that the layoffs were politically motivated and intended to punish workers while pressuring Congress.

The shutdown, which began on October 1, has now entered its third week. Democratic lawmakers are insisting that any agreement to reopen the government must address their healthcare demands. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated that he will not negotiate with Democrats until they pause their demands.

The Trump administration has continued to pay military personnel and pursue immigration enforcement while cutting jobs in health and education sectors, including special education and after-school programs. Trump has stated that programs favored by Democrats are being targeted and may not return.

In court filings, the administration revealed plans to lay off over 4,100 employees across eight federal agencies. The unions contend that these layoff notices represent an illegal attempt at political pressure and retribution, arguing that a temporary funding lapse does not eliminate Congress's authorization of agency programs.

The judge's order comes as the administration faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of the shutdown. The ongoing situation has delayed the announcement of the annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, originally scheduled for Wednesday, which will now be announced on October 24.

Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought has indicated that more workforce cuts are anticipated as long as the shutdown continues. He stated, "We’re going to keep those RIFS rolling throughout this shutdown because we think it’s important to stay on offense for the American taxpayer and the American people."

As the shutdown continues, concerns are rising about its impact on air traffic controllers and aviation safety. Chris Sununu, CEO of Airlines for America, emphasized the urgency of ending the shutdown, citing the increasing pressures faced by air traffic controllers working without pay.

With over 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers receiving partial paychecks, the situation remains critical as the government shutdown persists.