How would you Judge Illston's statement during the October 28, 2025, hearing that the driving force behind shutdown-related RIFs appeared to be political retribution?

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True. Judge Illston stated from the bench that the evidence suggested political retribution motivated shutdown RIFs rather than budget necessity. She cited OMB Director Vought's public statements about shuttering disfavored programs, the selective targeting of regulatory agencies, and the administration's departure from historical shutdown practices. Federal judges rarely accuse executive branch officials of improper motives, making Illston's direct language notable. Her finding of apparent political retribution supported the unions' claim that the RIFs violated merit system principles, which prohibit personnel actions based on political affiliation or policy disagreements. This judicial finding creates a factual record that could influence appeals courts reviewing her injunction.

How would you Judge Illston's statement during the October 28, 2025, hearing that the driving force behind shutdown-related RIFs appeared to be political retribution?

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