In a significant shift, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is set to undergo an extensive reorganization, resulting in more than 80,000 job cuts, as detailed in an internal memo reviewed on Wednesday. The memo emphasizes the VA’s intent to revert to staffing levels from 2019, reducing its personnel to just under 400,000. This move comes in the wake of the department’s expansion, which had occurred under the Biden administration to meet the needs of veterans, particularly those affected by burn pits addressed in the 2022 PACT Act.
The memo calls for preparations for an agency-wide restructuring slated for August, aiming to optimize the workforce size and align it more closely with the VA’s updated mission and structure. It also directs VA officials to collaborate with the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency, encouraging a rigorous yet pragmatic pursuit of the Trump administration’s goals. Notably, this revelation aligns with a report initially published by Government Executive.
Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, in a social media video on Wednesday, asserted that these layoffs would not diminish veterans’ health care or benefits. Collins emphasized that the administration is committed to delivering what veterans desire, in line with President Trump’s mandate for substantial change in Washington.
The VA’s proposed restructuring has already garnered opposition, with veterans expressing concerns over potential service disruptions. Veterans account for over 25% of the VA’s workforce, amplifying the impact of these changes. This latest development reflects the Trump administration’s broader initiative, spearheaded by Elon Musk under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aiming to streamline federal agencies, including those with historical bipartisan support.
Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, stressed that the president is unwilling to accept longstanding bureaucratic impediments within the VA that delay the delivery of quality care to veterans. The proposed changes promise to enhance efficiency and transparency within the agency.
The VA, according to its own data, had seen unprecedented service levels last year, covering over 9 million enrollees and facilitating more than 127.5 million healthcare appointments. Nonetheless, concerns over expertise and organizational capacity have emerged following recent high-level dismissals, including that of Michael Missal, the VA’s former inspector general. Missal, dismissed amid a wave of firings of oversight officials, argues that his removal and others like it undermine the VA’s ability to effectively serve veterans.
Missal has openly criticized the administration’s approach, warning that it could hinder service delivery and harm veterans. He highlighted the complex nature of managing the VA—a vast entity comparable to major U.S. corporations—and defended his oversight efforts, which reportedly saved $45 billion during his tenure.
In Congress, the VA’s restructuring plans have prompted mixed reactions. While Democrats have strongly criticized the cuts, Republicans have maintained a cautious stance, seeking more information. Rep. Mike Bost, chair of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, emphasized the need for continued scrutiny of the plan, especially concerning its potential impact post-PACT Act implementation. Sen. Lindsey Graham expressed dissatisfaction with the VA’s failure to consult Congress prior to announcing the changes, labeling the lack of communication as political malpractice.
Veteran groups are already uneasy about the impending workforce reductions and service uncertainties. Brent Reiffer, a Marine veteran and advocate with the Wounded Warrior Project, noted that confusion and frustration are growing within his community, potentially deterring veterans from seeking necessary care.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a leading Democrat overseeing veterans’ affairs, condemned what he termed an “assault” on the VA’s recent progress in service expansion, which he argues risks prioritizing private sector interests over veterans’ welfare. He criticized the restructuring as a betrayal that could compromise veterans’ well-being.
House Democratic leaders have also voiced their opposition to the VA budget cuts. Rep. Katherine Clark underscored Democrats’ commitment to defending veterans against being labeled as government waste in their quest for service improvements.
