The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has made cuts that has led to over 2,400 federal Veterans Affairs (VA) jobs lost this year.
Michigan state Democratic lawmakers had news conferences on Monday to object to cuts at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit and the Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. They did not address the Iron Mountain VA Medical center.r
“It is appalling that the Trump White House and our federal government would cut resources that help our veterans,” said state Rep. Reggie Miller (D-Van Buren Twp). “We have a responsibility as elected officials to make sure our veterans and those who care for them are supported — anything less is unacceptable. I stand firmly against any cuts to VA centers and express my immense gratitude for our veterans and their service to our country, as well as the hard work of the employees who care for them.”
The Veterans Affairs Department is one of the largest administrative departments in the country. Around 92% of VA’s workers are staffed in health administration and support. The John Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit provides cancer and PTSD treatment.
“As a Marine veteran, I know how many people rely on the help of the VA — and how critical the services they provide are,” state Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit) said. “Among those who lost their jobs are Michigan veterans who have served our country proudly and honorably. This not only affects the function of services the VA provides, but it also has critical impacts on the wellbeing of Michigan families.”
Veterans rely on VA medical centers for primary care as well as specialist appointments, home health care, medical equipment, prosthetics and prescription medications.
“Veterans have put their health and lives on the line to keep our country and communities safe. They deserve access to reliable care they can count on for issues often developed while safeguarding our freedoms,” said state Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Twp). “These cuts threaten to undermine the support our veterans need, cutting critical services and resources. Our government has a responsibility to ensure veterans receive the care and support they earned, no matter the cost.”
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