Congressional fights over plans to cut tens of thousands of VA staffers hinge on lawmakers' views on just how dysfunctional the department is. The move follows an order by President Donald Trump to look for evidence of discrimination against Christians throughout the federal government. Democratic lawmakers vow to block bills, slow nominations and hold their own hearings to protest planned cuts to veterans programs. Software handling timecards for VA employees has been malfunctioning for nearly a week, prompting concerns about paycheck delays. The move comes as VA Secretary Doug Collins has accused Democrats of creating panic over planned department reforms. GOP Senate leaders said they are working with VA officials on ways to ensure that plans to cut 80,000 jobs don't dismantle department services. Michael Missal served as the VA's top watchdog for eight years, during which he identified $45 billion in potential savings and questionable expenditures. Critics worry the contract cuts could hurt department medical operations and support services for veterans. About 2,500 VA workers have been forced out of their jobs in the last few weeks. Department leaders have declined to provide more information on recent layoffs amid rumors of looming additional staff cuts. Load More
