VA Employee Reveals Lack of Trust After Staffing Cuts

In January of 2026, Government Executive posted a piece by an employee of the Department of Veterans of Affairs (VA). In this article, the employee spoke about eroding trust within the organization, placing the blame squarely on cuts that the administration has made since its arrival. This employee also predicts some of the changes that veterans can expect from the VA going forward. Is there any truth to these statements? What has happened to VA disability benefits in Washington since this post was published?

VA Employee Tells World What’s Really Going on Behind the Scenes

In his article, the VA employee explained that he had worked at the organization for almost three decades. He states that although VA employees always seemed committed to veterans across the nation, recent changes have “tested” this commitment. The employee specifically names the VA Secretary as a negative influence on the organization’s goal of helping veterans.

One of the most high-profile deaths of a VA employee came just before this article was published, and it involved a VA nurse who was shot and killed by federal agents. This employee believes that the VA should have offered more heartfelt condolences, and other employees within the organization likely feel the same way.

The employee then segued into the massive staffing cuts announced by the new administration, noting that 83,000 VA positions will be gone soon. This equates to 15% of the entire workforce, and it is difficult to imagine how the VA will function effectively without as many workers. Some veterans are already experiencing delays. The author states that “veterans ultimately pay the price” of staffing cuts, especially when frontline medical workers lose their jobs.

One interesting insight provided by this article is something that many readers are unaware of: The VA has “reclassified” its workers as national security personnel. This effectively strips the bargaining power these workers would have had as employees. National security personnel find it much more difficult (if not impossible) to go on strike. This will undoubtedly lead to people voluntarily leaving their jobs at the VA in addition to the 83,000 staffing cuts.

Finally, the employee laments the questionable priorities of the new administration, namely the focus on fighting anti-Christian bias in the VA workplace. The article speaks about wasteful spending on fighting this problem, which, according to the author, does not exist. Even if it did, the VA employee notes that Title VII already protects against it.

Hold the VA Accountable With a VA Disability Benefits Lawyer in Washington

If you’re a veteran, you might be just as concerned about the future of the organization as this former employee. Perhaps you have noticed delays, denied claims, and other issues. First, you should know that you’re not alone. VA disability benefits lawyers in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma are available to offer assistance. Gustad Law Group, PLLC proudly serves veterans across Washington and the entire nation.

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