Trump Demands GOP ‘Clear Out Dead Wood’ From Federal Government During Shutdown ‘Opportunity’

David Gilmour Oct 2nd, 2025, 6:08 am

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump urged Republicans to use the government shutdown to “clear out dead wood” from the federal bureaucracy, sharpening his long-standing ambition to shrink Washington’s workforce.

Taking to Truth Social early Thursday, the president issued a short post making clear his demand:

Republicans must use this opportunity of Democrat forced closure to clear out dead wood, waste, and fraud. Billions of Dollars can be saved. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

The standoff began after Congress failed to break a deadlock over whether to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies. Democrats argue the protections are essential. Republi

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