Trump and Musk are leaving veterans behind!

The federal government stands as the largest employer of veterans in the nation, with a staggering 2.278 million civilian federal employees, nearly 30 percent of whom are veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) alone employs close to 371,000 health care professionals and support staff at VA medical facilities nationwide, overseeing benefits programs for veterans, their families, and survivors.

Despite the vital role these dedicated federal employees play, critics often decry government waste without acknowledging the fact that the civil service remains the same size as it was in the 1950s, despite the American population tripling since then. In reality, the federal government is at its smallest per capita in history, with many crucial agencies and services suffering from chronic understaffing. Drastically reducing the federal workforce would have catastrophic consequences not only for veterans but for all Americans.

The rapid and expansive efforts of individuals like Elon Musk have sparked frustration among some of President Trump’s aides, who lament a lack of coordination, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, according to sources cited by Reuters.

“I’ve given my all for this country, serving in the army and working for the Department of Defense for 17 years,” said Nick Gioia, a veteran feeling betrayed by a country he once proudly served. Trump claims to support veterans, but it’s clear he only cares about his billionaire friends. 

To the veterans who backed Trump and the GOP, how does it feel to be betrayed and exploited? It’s time to lay aside those red hats and embrace what it truly means to be an American! The Army instills a powerful creed: we leave no man (person) behind!