In a video posted on X, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins outlined the agency’s commitment to a “thorough and thoughtful” review of spending, with support from DOGE.
As part of these efforts, the VA is preparing for a 15% workforce reduction, impacting approximately 72,000 employees—a figure based on the agency’s current workforce of around 470,000, which is lower than previously reported estimates.
“We deeply regret the impact job losses will have on individuals and their families. These are incredibly difficult decisions for me as VA Secretary and as a leader. However, the federal government’s primary purpose is to serve the people—not simply to employ them,” Collins stated in the video.
While the agency moves forward with downsizing, Collins assured that hiring will continue for “mission-critical” roles to ensure that veterans’ healthcare and benefits remain unaffected.
Additionally, the VA has canceled nearly 600 contracts deemed “non-mission critical” or redundant, a move expected to save $900 million. Previous estimates from Collins and the VA suggested that total savings from contract cancellations could reach between $1.8 billion and $2 billion.
“We owe it to America’s veterans—and to the thousands of dedicated VA employees—to find real solutions. And mark my words, that’s exactly what we will deliver,” Collins affirmed.