How is the government's workforce reduction affecting Veterans Affairs employees?

The government's workforce reduction initiative is significantly impacting Veterans Affairs employees, with over 1,000 workers being terminated last week after not accepting deferred resignation packages. Many of those affected were probationary employees with less than two years of service who lacked job protections and appeal rights. The Trump administration also targeted allegedly underperforming workers, claiming this move would save the department more than $98 million annually. These cuts primarily affected newer employees with fewer protections, highlighting the vulnerability of recent hires within the VA system during government downsizing efforts.