Kansas City Today

2025 was a tough year for Kansas City's federal workers

By Jodi Fortino,

Published December 29, 2025 at 4:00 AM CST

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As 2025 nears its end, we’re catching up on the biggest stories we reported this year.

KCUR's Nomin Ujiyediin kept up with federal workers as they weathered mass layoffs and the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. She spoke with KCUR’s Brian Ellison about how that impacted their jobs and mental health.

Contact the show at news@kcur.org. Follow KCUR on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news.

Kansas City Today is hosted by Jodi Fortino. This episode was produced by Suzanne Hogan and KCUR Studios, and edited by Emily Younker.

Support Kansas City Today by becoming a KCUR member: kcur.org/donate.

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Jodi Fortino

As KCUR’s education reporter, I cover how the economy, housing and school funding shape kids' education. I’ll meet teachers, students and their families where they are — late night board meetings, in the classroom or in their homes — to break down the big decisions and cover what matters most to you. You can reach me at jodifortino@kcur.org.

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Suzanne Hogan

As managing podcast producer for KCUR Studios and a host of A People’s History of Kansas City, I want to feed your curious mind, offer historical context so you understand why things are the way they are, and introduce you to the people working to make a difference behind the scenes. Reach me at hogansm@kcur.org.

See stories by Suzanne Hogan