Oregon Democrats Condemn Federal Plan to Cut VA Jobs

Salem, Oregon- Representative Thuy Tran (D–NE Portland) and Senator Mark Meek (D–Gladstone) have publicly condemned the Trump administration’s plan to eliminate over 80,000 positions at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The proposed cuts, they argue, would significantly impact healthcare, mental health services, and other critical support systems for Oregon veterans and their families.

The VA is Oregon’s largest federal employer. According to internal memos, the proposed reorganization would reduce staffing levels to those of 2019, despite an increase in demand for veteran healthcare and mental health services. The layoffs would also affect a workforce where more than a quarter of employees are veterans themselves.

“I know firsthand the importance of accessible healthcare, mental health services, and the specialized expertise the VA provides,” said Rep. Tran, Chair of the House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government, and Veterans, and co-chair of the Oregon Legislative Veterans Caucus. “Cutting 80,000 positions risks dismantling the progress we’ve made, at a time when veteran and service member suicide rates are tragically at a 20-year high. Our veterans deserve more than gratitude—they deserve a government that ensures they receive the support and care they fought so hard to earn. Instead of hollowing out the VA, we must strengthen these programs and demand a government that values stability, respects public servants, and remains committed to the well-being of our veterans.”

Tran, who serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Oregon Air National Guard, emphasized that these cuts would undermine critical support systems for veterans.

Sen. Meek echoed her concerns. “Veterans didn’t cut corners when they signed up to defend this country. They didn’t look for the cheapest way to complete their mission. They served with honor, and now they’re being treated like an afterthought,” he said. “This fight is not over. I will not stand by while veterans are left behind. They deserve better.”

Veterans advocacy groups have also raised concerns that reducing staffing at the VA could lead to longer wait times for medical care and mental health services, affecting those who rely on the system for essential support.

Lawmakers and advocates have vowed to push back against the proposed cuts, arguing that veterans deserve a fully staffed and well-supported VA to meet their needs.