This episode of The FED Weekly covers significant developments for federal employees and retirees from September 28 to October 4, 2025. A government shutdown defined the week after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill, with health care subsidies at the center of the dispute. The episode also details the massive culmination of the Trump administration’s deferred resignation program, resulting in over 150,000 federal workers leaving their jobs—historically the largest such event in the country's history. Despite the shutdown, annuity payments to retirees remain secure, as they are funded independently from appropriations. The podcast highlights ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) and discusses the projected 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of approximately 2.7%. The shutdown led to significant furloughs, administrative turmoil, and plans for a permanent reduction-in-force, with the administration aiming to restructure the civil service and shift toward at-will employment. The episode highlights the ongoing uncertainty and challenges faced by federal workers and retirees.