Still Sticky: FAA Lawyer Chris Jennison Returns to Talk About the Government Shutdown

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In this bonus series, we’re catching up with previous guests to hear what makes them “Still Sticky.”

We first met Chris Jennison a couple of dozen episodes ago when he told the story of his position as a government attorney with the Federal Aviation Administration, his role as an American Bar Association officer, and his side gig as a volunteer emergency medical technician with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad. This man packs a lot into 24 hours.

But unfortunately, Chris has had some extra time on his hands. As a federal employee, he has been furloughed since the latest government shutdown began on October 1, 2025.

In a conversation with host John Reed on October 23, 2025, Chris shared his experience and frustrations as a furloughed government employee. He explained how the deferred resignation program (DRP) has decreased his department’s attorneys by half and doubled the work of those remaining. He also offered insights into how this reduced workforce may affect case handling and adjudication.

If you’re expecting a political rant, you’ll be pleasantly disappointed. It’s just a Sticky Lawyer on the front lines in a new era of government discussing the current state of affairs.