Sen. Van Hollen condemns VA employee layoffs as betrayal

Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen expressed serious concerns about the Trump administration's cuts to the federal workforce, particularly regarding veterans. He described these actions as a "betrayal" of veterans who serve in federal jobs. Van Hollen spoke at Towson University, criticizing President Trump's justification for laying off federal employees, including many from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). He claimed that false claims of "poor performance" were used to support these firings. According to an internal memo, the administration plans to cut 80,000 VA employees. Van Hollen noted that many of those laid off had received positive performance reviews, calling the justification for their termination a lie. He also pointed out that initial court decisions show the administration violated proper procedures during these mass firings. Federal Judge James K. Bredar issued a restraining order to reinstate some employees, especially those with the least job security. Van Hollen criticized the practice of placing employees on leave, saying it contradicts the idea of making government more efficient. In response to Van Hollen's statements, White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly highlighted Trump's efforts to improve VA services and cut wasteful spending. She claimed these reforms help veterans and make the government more efficient. Veterans shared their stories during Van Hollen's discussion. Many expressed frustration with the cuts. Vincent Camacho, a retired Air Force veteran, found himself on administrative leave just months after starting a federal job. Octavia Hatem, a former VA employee, lost her position and now worries about her healthcare and benefits. Ronald Mark Hill, who was laid off but later reinstated, emphasized the need for better communication from the government regarding these cuts. He warned that veterans would make their voices heard in the upcoming midterm elections.