Congressman Kennedy Demands Answers from VA Secretary Following Dismissal of 1,000+ VA Employees

Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) released the following statement after the Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins announced the dismissal of more than 1,000 VA employees with a late-night press release: “Last night, Trump's Department of Veterans Affairs terminated more than 1,000 VA employees with a late-night press release. This indefensible, bad-faith action jeopardizes veterans' ability to receive the benefits, support, and healthcare they need, and that they have earned and deserve,” said Congressman Kennedy. “VA Secretary Collins’ decision is ill-conceived and cruel, especially as the VA, according to its own estimates, is experiencing a massive staff shortage with 40,000 vacancies. It is a slap in the face to our military heroes who have sacrificed so much for our nation, and to the dedicated employees who support them. I am demanding answers from the Secretary, and will continue to fight against this administration’s actions that undermine our ability to deliver for our nation’s veterans, who deserve nothing less than our gratitude and respect for their sacrifices to our country.” BACKGROUND Late on Thursday, February 13, the Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins announced the termination of more than 1,000 probationary employees. This sweeping decision raises significant concerns about transparency, the impact these actions will have on veterans, and the future allocation of VA resources. The abrupt dismissals have prompted calls for accountability, with lawmakers demanding clarity on the criteria used to determine terminations and the number of affected employees who are veterans themselves. In response, Congressman Kennedy and the Democratic Members of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs have sent a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins demanding full transparency on the terminations. The letter calls for an unredacted list of all dismissed employees, including their job functions and veteran status, as well as a legal justification for their removal. Lawmakers also seek answers regarding the criteria used for these firings and the definition of "mission-critical" roles. Additionally, the letter poses serious questions about the administration’s plans to reallocate the alleged $98 million in funds associated with these personnel changes. ###