WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has plans for a major reorganization that could lead to the loss of 80,000 jobs. An internal memo obtained by The Associated Press reveals that the VA aims to reduce its workforce to pre-pandemic levels, which means cutting down to just under 400,000 employees.
Christopher Syrek, the VA’s chief of staff, shared this goal with agency officials. The job cuts come after the VA expanded during the Biden administration and in response to the demands created by the 2022 PACT Act, which supports veterans affected by burn pits.
The memo urges top leaders to prepare for an agency-wide reorganization set for August. This effort is intended to adjust the workforce to fit the agency’s mission. Officials are also advised to collaborate with the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency to implement these changes effectively.
Many veterans are voicing their concerns over these cuts. So far, the VA has already reduced its staff by thousands of employees and canceled numerous contracts. It’s important to note that more than a quarter of the VA’s workforce consists of veterans themselves.
In Congress, Democrats have condemned these job cuts. In contrast, Republicans seem to be taking a more cautious approach regarding the changes initiated by the Trump administration.
Senator Richard Blumenthal, a leading Democrat on the Senate committee overseeing veteran affairs, criticized the administration’s plans. He stated that the cuts threaten the VA’s recent progress and prioritize profits over the care veterans deserve. Blumenthal expressed that this approach is disappointing and will ultimately harm those who have served the country.
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Donald Trump, Richard Blumenthal, Christopher Syrek, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans, District of Columbia, General news, Government and politics, Department of Government Efficiency, U.S. news, Washington news, U.S. News, Politics
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