In Washington, many Republican lawmakers have shown considerable support for sweeping budget cuts throughout the federal government under the supervision of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. However, several have voiced concerns regarding the potential negative impact these reductions may have on federal workers, particularly in their constituencies.
The pushback comes as constituents express worries about potential job losses. It has led some Republicans to publicly question Musk’s actions—Musk, being one of President Trump’s prominent advisors, has implemented rapid spending reductions aimed at minimizing the federal workforce.
With further cuts expected, here are insights into the perspectives of several Republican members of Congress concerning the anticipated reductions in the federal civilian workforce, most of whom work outside of Washington, D.C., in various states and districts:
Representative Bill Huizenga from Michigan conveyed concerns in a recent virtual meeting with constituents. “I fully admit that Elon Musk can be impulsive with his tweets,” Huizenga remarked. He suggested Musk sometimes proceeds without fully grasping the legalities or implications of his actions.
In Illinois, Rep. Mike Bost, who chairs the House Veterans Affairs Committee, is facing proposed cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs, which aims to eliminate over 80,000 positions as per a recently surfaced internal memo. Bost stated he has questions regarding the impact of these cuts, particularly on service delivery, especially after the implementation of the PACT Act. He has resolved to prioritize veterans in the agency’s mission.
Wisconsin Rep. Derrick Van Orden shared that he found Musk approachable during their recent conversation. In a statement, Van Orden mentioned Musk’s assurance that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would refine their strategies to prevent adverse effects on veterans and farmers, ensuring any waste reduction does not harm essential services.
In Virginia’s 2nd District, which features a significant military presence, Rep. Jennifer Kiggans addressed a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Kiggans, whose district has the highest percentage of civilian federal employees under Republican representation, urged caution with layoffs that could inadvertently affect veterans.
Nebraska’s Rep. Don Bacon, representing a competitive district, has advocated for more precise application of the cuts. Citing the recent rehiring of Agriculture Department workers for addressing the bird flu outbreak, Bacon praised President Trump for targeting misuse in government but stressed the importance of being cautious to protect essential functions.
Idaho’s Rep. Mike Simpson warned about potential negative consequences for national parks with reductions at the onset of summer tourist season. Simpson, a seasoned member of the Appropriations Committee, indicated the need for dialogue with the government efficiency department to understand the exact impacts.
Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina, responding to the Veterans Affairs memo, voiced dissatisfaction with the lack of congressional consultation regarding these substantial changes and described the oversight as “political malpractice.”
Senator Katie Britt of Alabama released a statement urging a careful approach to proposed reductions at the National Institutes of Health, highlighting the need to preserve crucial research, including work at Alabama’s University.
Lastly, Kansas Senator Jerry Moran expressed concerns about potential disruptions in the distribution of food by the U.S. Agency for International Development, which affects agricultural exports from America’s heartland.
