Trump Administration Plans 80,000 Job Cuts at VA, Risks Veterans' Health

Recent and proposed cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including plans to eliminate over 80,000 jobs, have sparked fears among veterans and advocates that essential mental health and support services could be compromised. While some veterans, like Army veteran Stacey DeMoss, have recently reported positive experiences with VA care, many remain anxious that downsizing could undo recent improvements and make it harder to access timely treatment. Lawmakers from both parties acknowledge the urgency of addressing high rates of veteran suicide, but Democrats in particular have criticized the impact of staffing reductions—especially to critical programs like the Veterans Crisis Line. Although VA officials claim direct care will not be compromised, concerns persist that return-to-office mandates and job cuts could worsen working conditions for mental health professionals and ultimately harm veteran outcomes. Advocates warn that many veterans, who are also federal workers, could face a mounting crisis if these cuts proceed. VA Secretary Doug Collins argues that restructuring is necessary to improve care, but the debate continues over whether these changes will help or hurt veterans in need.