The ongoing government shutdown has led to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) preparing to furlough around 80% of its workforce responsible for maintaining and managing the US nuclear stockpile. Numerous reports indicate that thousands of workers in the nuclear weapons sector will face layoffs, prompting concerns about the safety and oversight of the nation’s nuclear arsenal. Energy Secretary has warned that if the shutdown continues, essential workers will be required to operate without pay to manage the nuclear stockpile effectively. Lawmakers are expressing alarm over the potential risks this shutdown poses to national security, arguing that it jeopardizes troop pay and the stability of the nuclear weapons workforce.