VoteVets Holds National Hall to Address Department of Veterans Affairs Layoffs
VoteVets recently held a national hall to discuss the negative impact that federal downsizing by the Department of Government Efficiency has had on United States veterans. U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq War Army National Guard combat veteran, highlighted the lasting effects of the roughly 2400 Department of Veterans Affairs job cuts orchestrated by Trump and Musk. These layoffs are expected to result in longer wait times, increased backlogs, and chaos for veterans.
Amid these layoffs, shortages in resources for veterans have already been reported, with canceled healthcare appointments, reduced numbers of beds and operating rooms at VA facilities, and postponed or canceled suicide prevention training sessions. The crisis hotline, a vital resource for veterans in their darkest hour, has also been impacted by these cuts.
Stories from veterans like Dustin Conklin, Frances Greenlee, and Kyle Lewis further highlight the real-life consequences of these layoffs. Conklin lost his job with the USDA, putting his health insurance and access to important medications at risk. Greenlee and Lewis faced similar terminations based on performance despite inadequate time to receive evaluations.
In response to these layoffs, Duckworth is committed to reinstating veterans to their positions and fighting for their rights. She encouraged action and engagement to address the impact of these cuts on veterans across the country. VoteVets has a tip line on their website for veterans and military families affected by federal cuts.
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