The Patriot Daily 5 — October 12, 2025
, 4 min reading time
Good morning, patriots!
Here are five stories today you’ll want to follow — about power plays, federal workers, and who’s calling the shots in Washington.
1. Vance warns “deeper, painful” cuts ahead for federal workers
As the shutdown enters Day 12, VP JD Vance cautioned that further and harsher cuts are on the horizon for federal workers unless the standoff ends. More than 4,000 layoffs are already expected in key departments. Read more
Why it matters: This is pressure by another name. For MAGA supporters, it’s a signal: the government won’t just wait — it’s going to force the other side’s hand.
2. Trump names Dan Scavino to head White House personnel office
President Trump has tapped Dan Scavino (his longtime confidant and social media figure) to lead the White House Presidential Personnel Office, replacing Sergio Gor. Read more
Why it matters: Scavino’s appointment signals importance being put on loyalty and messaging. For the MAGA base, it’s reassuring someone close to Trump is shaping who gets into key slots.
3. CDC rescinds many layoff notices after backlash
The CDC initially issued layoff notices to roughly 1,300 employees amid the shutdown but quickly reversed hundreds of them amid public backlash and internal pushback. Read more
Why it matters: The administration’s move shows the push-and-pull dynamic. Cut first, then backtrack when the optics get bad. That’s a playbook — and one worth watching going forward.
4. Trump orders Pentagon to use “all available funds” to pay troops
In the face of mounting pressure, Trump has ordered the Pentagon to tap into remaining resources so active military personnel receive paychecks (especially on October 15), even without a full budget in place. Read more
Why it matters: Troop pay is a political red line. If Trump can deliver this despite the gridlock, it boosts his narrative of responsibility even amid chaos.
5. Workers say they’re being used as political pawns — fear back pay won’t come
Unions and federal workers are speaking out: thousands remain furloughed or working without pay, and many fear they’ll never get back pay. Some call the situation “unprecedented pressure politics.” Read more
Why it matters: The human toll is real. The longer this goes, the more sympathy swings toward workers — and that may force more cracks in the GOP’s posture if public pressure grows.
🇺🇸 Final Thought
The shutdown is now a full test of stamina — of messaging, personnel choices, and political brinkmanship. Trump is trying to project control (troop pay, key appointments) even while casualties mount. For patriots, the biggest question is: who blink first — the Democrats, the courts, or the public?