As the U.S. government shutdown enters its 20th day, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has begun furloughing approximately 1,400 workers responsible for maintaining the country's nuclear arsenal. A Department of Energy spokesperson confirmed the move, citing the need to prioritize 'protection of property and the safety of human life' amid ongoing political gridlock.
The NNSA, which oversees 60,000 contractors and manages 5,177 nuclear warheads, will maintain only 400 essential staff at critical facilities like Texas' Pantex plant and Tennessee's Y-12 complex. This marks the first time nuclear weapons personnel have been affected since the shutdown began in December 2022.
President Donald Trump intensified pressure on congressional Democrats, stating at a White House briefing: 'We're hoping the Democrats become much less deranged and that we will get the vote pretty soon.' Meanwhile, White House Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett warned of 'stronger measures' if negotiations stall further.
The shutdown's economic ripple effects now extend to national security infrastructure, with experts raising concerns about long-term impacts on nuclear maintenance schedules and contractor relationships. The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists noted that while deployed warheads remain secure, prolonged staff absences could delay modernization programs.
