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VA Chief Calls for Staff Amid Hiring Cuts

3/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The head of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says more staff are needed despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s cuts to hiring.
A New York Times analysis finds about 14,400 VA medical vacancies, roughly 5% of the VA's workforce.
Over 90% of VA facilities reported doctor shortages, and nearly 80% faced nurse shortages last year, while a VA spokesperson said eliminated positions were unnecessary and operations improved under Trump.

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Story summary

The head of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says more staff are needed despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s cuts to hiring.
A New York Times analysis finds about 14,400 VA medical vacancies, roughly 5% of the VA's workforce.
Over 90% of VA facilities reported doctor shortages, and nearly 80% faced nurse shortages last year, while a VA spokesperson said eliminated positions were unnecessary and operations improved under Trump.