The Department of Veterans Affairs is planning a significant reorganization that involves cutting over 80,000 jobs, according to an internal memo obtained by The Associated Press. The VA’s chief of staff, Christopher Syrek, stated that the agency aims to reduce its workforce to 2019 levels, requiring the termination of tens of thousands of employees.
The memo instructs top-level staff to prepare for an agency-wide reorganization in August to resize and tailor the workforce. This move is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to slash federal agencies, even those with bipartisan support. Veterans have expressed concerns about the impact of these cuts on the quality of care they receive.
Former VA inspector general Michael Missal, who was recently fired by Trump, warned that the agency’s performance could suffer as a result of the cuts. Democratic leaders in Congress have decried the VA’s reorganization, questioning its impact on veteran services.
Veterans groups are worried about potential layoffs and confusion surrounding the changes. Marine veteran Brent Reiffer expressed concerns about the impact on his community, highlighting the potential for veterans to not receive the care they deserve.
Overall, there are growing concerns among veterans and lawmakers about the VA’s reorganization and the potential repercussions for those who have served. Critics argue that the Trump administration’s focus on budget cuts may compromise the quality of care provided to veterans.
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