Donald Trump’s latest executive order, “Implementing the President’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Workforce Optimization Initiative,” is set to shake up the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in a terrible way, such that it could leave countless veterans struggling for support. But why would Trump and Elon Muskpush for a policy that guts services for those who served the country?
Are They Making It Worse on Purpose?
After this order, there are strict hiring limits within the federal government, particularly at the VA. Under the new rule, only one of every four employees who leave can be replaced. That means fewer doctors, fewer benefits processors, and fewer support staff, right when veterans need them the most.
The VA is already stretched thin as it has to deal with an aging veteran population and expanding responsibilities under former President Biden. By cutting its workforce, Trump’s order comes as a guarantee to more delays, longer wait times, and even outright denials of healthcare, disability claims, and other crucial services.
This is a lot more than just limiting new hires. It’s about tearing down the VA from within. The order demands immediate staff cuts, hitting programs that help veterans transition to civilian life, secure federal jobs, and support their families. Active-duty military members stationed overseas will also not be safe from the blow, as they will lose access to vital resources like childcare and employment support for their spouses.
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Even worse part is that hiring at the VA will now be a slow, bureaucratic mess. Every new employee must be approved by a DOGE “team lead,” a role that could be filled by unqualified individuals—including young, politically motivated appointees with little experience. The result? A formation of a VA that can’t function properly.
The Real Reason Behind It All
The bigger question is: Why would Trump and Musk do this? The answer seems to be money and power. Trump’s administration is scrambling to fund mass deportation plans and extend the massive tax cuts he gave the wealthy in 2017. Musk, meanwhile, continues to profit from government contracts while pushing for policies that favor his businesses.
While they talk about “saving money,” the reality is not what it seems. The government is set to spend $400 million on ‘armored’ Teslas! Well, that’s a deal that benefits Musk, but on this hand, veterans are losing their healthcare and job security.
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For years, politicians have promised to take care of veterans. This executive order does the opposite. It cuts thousands of VA jobs, leaving fewer people to process benefits and provide care. Moreover, it slashes transition programs, which makes life harder for veterans who are adjusting to civilian life. It even hurts military families abroad as they cut critical resources on which they depend. It also turns the VA into a bureaucratic nightmare, making it even harder to get help.
The message seems pretty clear at this moment: Trump and Musk aren’t trying to fix the VA. Rather, they’re trying to break it, forcing veterans into the private sector while they pocket the savings. Their message to those who served? “Good luck—you’re on your own.”
