The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is set to undergo a massive restructuring, with plans to eliminate over 80,000 jobs, according to an internal memo obtained by the Associated Press. The drastic cuts are part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to downsize federal agencies and reduce government spending.
A Return to 2019 Staffing Levels
Christopher Syrek, the VA’s Chief of Staff, informed top officials that the agency must cut its workforce to match pre-2020 levels—approximately 400,000 employees. This move comes after the Biden administration expanded the VA to accommodate veterans affected by toxic burn pits, as covered under the 2022 PACT Act.
The restructuring is set to begin in August, with the VA working closely with the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk. The memo emphasized the need for an “aggressive yet pragmatic” approach to implementing the layoffs.
Trump’s Push for a Leaner VA
VA Secretary Doug Collins defended the move, assuring the public that veterans’ healthcare and benefits would not be affected. In a video statement, he said, “This administration is finally going to give veterans what they want. President Trump has a mandate for generational change in Washington, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering at the VA.”
However, veteran organizations and lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns about the consequences of such significant layoffs. More than 25% of the VA’s workforce consists of veterans, many of whom fear that their jobs—and the quality of care provided to their fellow servicemen and women—could be at risk.
Impact on Veterans’ Services
The VA currently serves over 9 million veterans, with record-high service levels in 2024, delivering over 127.5 million healthcare appointments. Critics argue that cutting such a large portion of the workforce could undermine these services.
Michael Missal, the former VA Inspector General who was dismissed by Trump earlier this year, warned that the cuts would weaken the agency. “The VA is already struggling with a loss of expertise, and reducing staff further will only harm veterans,” Missal stated.
He also highlighted the Trump administration’s aggressive stance against independent oversight, as multiple watchdog officials across federal agencies have been removed. Missal himself is challenging his dismissal in court alongside seven other fired inspectors general.
Political Reactions and Concerns
Democratic lawmakers strongly oppose the layoffs, calling them an attack on the progress made in expanding veterans’ services.
Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the plan, stating, “This administration is prioritizing private sector profits over veterans’ well-being. It’s a betrayal of those who have served.”
House Democratic leader Katherine Clark echoed these sentiments, saying, “Democrats are united in ensuring that veterans are not treated as government waste.”
On the Republican side, reactions have been mixed. Representative Mike Bost, Chair of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said he is monitoring the situation closely. Meanwhile, Senator Lindsey Graham criticized the administration for failing to inform Congress in advance. “It’s political malpractice not to consult lawmakers before making a 20% cut to the VA,” he remarked.
Veteran Groups Express Concerns
Veterans’ organizations fear the uncertainty and potential impact on essential services. Brent Reiffer, a Marine veteran and advocate for the Wounded Warrior Project, said, “Many veterans are frustrated and confused. When they feel lost in the system, some may stop seeking the care they need.”
As the Trump administration pushes forward with its restructuring plans, the fate of VA employees and the quality of care for millions of veterans remain uncertain.
