Wichita Standard

Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal has issued a statement criticizing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins for the recent termination of VA employees. This action follows the earlier dismissal of over 1,000 employees, which included veterans and military spouses.

Blumenthal expressed concern over these terminations, stating: “Doug Collins continues to put the interests of veterans last with additional indiscriminate firings of VA employees who serve veterans, including patient-facing employees.” He emphasized that these actions are impairing the Department's ability to provide timely and quality care to veterans. According to Blumenthal, the dismissals are seen as a move by Collins to reduce staff numbers for publicity purposes.

The statement also highlighted the negative impact on trust in the VA and its ability to recruit and retain skilled professionals. Blumenthal urged his colleagues across party lines to oppose these cuts and prevent what he describes as an attempt by the Administration to balance budgets at the expense of veterans.

The Trump Administration's decision comes amid critical staffing shortages at VA facilities and an increased demand for services like mental health care aimed at reducing veteran suicide rates. Many terminated employees reportedly had strong performance records and extensive government service experience.

Blumenthal led a group of 35 Democratic Senators calling for the reinstatement of those dismissed, emphasizing their importance in serving veterans nationwide. The Senators challenged Secretary Collins' assurances that these terminations would not affect VA healthcare or benefits negatively. They cited delays in opening new clinics due to hiring issues, halted service lines at hospitals, suspended operations at facilities, reduced caregiver support lines, and disruptions at the Veterans Crisis Line as evidence of adverse effects.

Veterans or VA employees affected by these changes are encouraged to contact the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee for assistance.