VA Secretary defends proposed 15% workforce reduction

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins has been unwavering in his commitment to reform the department, despite facing criticism for the dismissal of at least 2,400 employees. Collins has emphasized that these changes are necessary to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies and improve customer service for veterans.

In a recent video posted on X, Collins stated, \”VA’s biggest problem is that its bureaucracy and inefficiencies are getting in the way of customer convenience and service to veterans. We owe American veterans and hundreds of thousands of amazing employees solutions, and that is exactly what we will deliver.\” Collins attributes these personnel moves to President Trump’s initiative to streamline government operations, in collaboration with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The VA has announced that the recent dismissals will result in annual savings of over $83 million, which will be reallocated towards enhancing healthcare benefits and services for VA beneficiaries. Despite facing backlash for proposing a 15% reduction in the workforce, Collins remains committed to the VA’s goal of cutting 80,000 jobs.

During an interview on \”Fox & Friends\” with Brian Kilmeade, Collins defended the VA cuts and emphasized that the process will be thorough and inclusive, involving career VA employees, senior executives, and external experts to ensure efficiency. He highlighted that the VA has long been plagued by operational issues, with the GAO listing VA healthcare as high-risk for a decade.

Collins acknowledged the longstanding challenges faced by veterans in accessing quality healthcare, including long wait times, delayed care, and corruption. He noted that the Trump administration has already identified 600 non-mission-critical contracts to save nearly $1 billion, which will be reinvested in improving services for veterans.

Despite criticism from Democrats and the media, Collins reassured that there will be no cuts to healthcare or benefits for veterans. He emphasized that the VA will continue to hire for mission-critical positions to ensure that veterans receive the care and benefits they deserve.

While Democrats have condemned the VA cuts, Collins remains focused on delivering solutions to improve services for veterans. He highlighted the upcoming protest against VA cuts and \”Project 2025,\” organized by veterans in Washington, D.C., and state capitals across the country.

In conclusion, Collins reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing a more efficient, accountable, and transparent VA for veterans. He emphasized that the changes being implemented are aimed at fulfilling the needs and expectations of American veterans, who have long awaited a more effective and responsive VA.