Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Layoffs Amid Shutdown Standoff

A federal judge in San Francisco has extended a block against President Donald Trump's administration from proceeding with layoffs of thousands of federal employees amidst a nearly month-long partial government shutdown.

U.S. District Judge Susan Illston has continued her earlier order, which prevents almost 40 federal agencies from releasing workers as legal challenges brought by unions representing federal employees unfold. Prior to the judgment, approximately 4,100 workers were notified of potential layoffs.

The ongoing shutdown, the second longest in U.S. history, has led to heightened tension between Trump's Republicans and Senate Democrats, who demand health insurance subsidy extensions. Legal and political battles continue as the situation remains unresolved.