WASHINGTON — A Democratic freshman lawmaker has put forth a proposal aimed at safeguarding the employment of veterans working within the U.S. government in response to widespread dismissals under the Trump administration. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Derek Tran who once served in the Army and practiced as an employment attorney, seeks to ensure that any veterans dismissed from federal positions without cause since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s administration are rehired.
The proposal also mandates that federal agencies providing employment to veterans present reports to Congress detailing dismissals, along with the reasons behind these actions. “The sacrifices they made for our nation and our liberties are immeasurable,” remarked Tran, who represents regions of Orange County, California. “Yet, they are now being abandoned.”
While the bill faces slim chances of progressing in the Republican-majority House, it reflects broader Democratic efforts to leverage public dissent against Trump’s initiatives to overhaul federal systems, particularly through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), helmed by billionaire advisor Elon Musk.
Democratic data from the House Appropriations Committee reveals that approximately 6,000 veterans have been let go throughout the federal government. Furthermore, the same data indicates DOGE has dismissed around 38,000 federal employees since Trump’s second term began. “It’s akin to giving them the go-ahead to do as they please,” Tran explained. “They feel authorized to disrupt by firing and downsizing, which supposedly conserves funds, only for these savings to be redirected into their tax cuts.”
Democrats have vehemently criticized what they see as illegal overreach by the Trump administration against federal workers, while Republicans defend these measures as essential reforms to reduce what they consider excessive government operations. Tran is open to bipartisan collaboration on his bill, expressing a desire for a Republican partner. “I’m seeking bipartisan backing. This isn’t meant to be divisive,” Tran emphasized. “It’s about doing right by our veterans, ensuring my colleagues realize its nonpartisan intent.”
Historically, the federal structure has promoted veteran employment post-military service. Initiated under President Barack Obama, the Veterans Employment Initiative aimed to enhance veteran hiring and retention within the government. Skills acquired during military service remain highly valued by private sector companies due to their applicability and efficacy.
Tran’s background is rooted in a story of immigration; his parents left Vietnam amid the conflict there, and he later proudly served in the U.S. Army before acquiring a law degree and launching a small enterprise. His electoral success marks him as the third Vietnamese American member of Congress, having defeated Republican U.S. Rep. Michelle Steel last year. Tran attributes his dedication to service partly to the assistance his family received from various governmental programs upon their arrival. “Being a refugee’s child, I always felt indebted to this nation for the opportunities it bestowed on my family,” Tran reflected. “This instilled in me a deep desire to contribute to this country. That’s why, without informing anyone, I went to the recruitment office and signed up.”
