US set for record mass resignation as Trump administration presses cuts

More than 100,000 federal employees are expected to resign on Tuesday in what is set to be the largest mass departure in US history. The resignations are part of a Trump administration programme aimed at deep cuts to the federal workforce, coming at a critical moment as Congress faces a deadline to approve funding and avoid a government shutdown. The White House has instructed federal agencies to prepare contingency plans for further layoffs should lawmakers fail to reach an agreement.

Many departing employees have cited months of fear and intimidation under the administration, describing a loss of mission and job security as key reasons for leaving. A longtime FEMA official told the Guardian that federal workers stay for the mission, and when that mission is taken away, many feel they have no choice but to depart.

Amid these developments, President Donald Trump is planning to meet US congressional leaders in a last-ditch effort to prevent a shutdown. At the same time, a former senior White House lawyer has claimed that Trump is using the indictment of former FBI director James Comey to conceal his own alleged misconduct. In New York, Mayor Eric Adams announced he is abandoning his bid for re-election, citing media pressure and campaign funding challenges. Meanwhile, watchdog reports have raised concerns over prolonged deprivation of clean water, sleep, and adequate hygiene for children held in ICE detention in Texas.

These events underscore rising tensions in US politics, with the administration pursuing aggressive personnel and policy strategies as the government faces an uncertain financial and operational future.