Mayor Lee statement on federal shutdown
September 30, 2025
News from: Mayor's Office
Mayor Lee statement on federal shutdown
OAKLAND, CA – Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee issued the following statement regarding the federal government shutdown and its impact on City services:
"Oaklanders deserve a government that works for them – at all levels. When Washington shuts down, Oaklanders feel it, especially our most vulnerable.
As your Mayor, I want you to know that despite the federal government shutdown, all essential City services continue as normal. This includes public safety, infrastructure maintenance, housing services, business support and permitting, and economic development programs.
President Trump's failure to prevent this shutdown puts our most vulnerable residents at risk – those who depend on federal programs for housing assistance, nutrition support, and critical services. This is unacceptable, and Oakland won't stand by while Washington plays politics with people's lives.
Our team has worked proactively to secure federal funding already committed to Oakland and we're prepared for potential disruptions to federal grants. Earlier this year, the City Council and I anticipated possible federal funding challenges and set aside resources to help bridge any gaps if needed.
We are in contact with Senator Padilla, Senator Schiff, and Representative Simon to advocate for Oakland and stay informed. Oakland is prepared. Your city services will not be interrupted. We've got this.
Oakland will do everything we can to protect essential services. Thank you to our educators, childcare providers, health workers, federal workers, and community partners who step up for our residents every day. We'll keep putting Oaklanders first and we urge Washington to act swiftly so families don't go without the basics they deserve."
For updates, visit oakland.ca.gov
Mayor's Office Contact:
Justin Phillips