VA Healthcare Workers Blindsided By Mass Layoffs: “We’ve Been Betrayed” [Video]

Nationwide layoffs at the Veterans Administration have reached Atlanta’s VA Health Care System, though the local VA hasn’t disclosed the number of workers affected or the specific impact.

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Some laid-off employees are left questioning their selection for termination.

Late Thursday, the Trump administration announced the cuts, which include workers in probationary positions. Among those terminated was former U.S. Army First Sergeant Nelson Feliz, Sr., who shared his frustration. “We’ve been mistreated,” he told Channel 2’s Richard Elliot, adding, “We’ve been betrayed.” In a “Notice of Termination” email, the VA cited his performance and concluded that continuing his employment wouldn’t serve the public interest.

Feliz, who’s been with the VA for over 12 years, had just started a new position and was still in his probationary period. He voiced disbelief over the decision, asking, “Why is this happening to us? I’ve been here too long for this to be happening.”

New VA Secretary, Doug Collins, a former Georgia Congressman, described the layoffs as necessary, explaining that the cuts would save $93 million annually, which would be redirected to veterans’ services. Collins also dismissed rumors that the layoffs would affect benefits, emphasizing that the goal is to ensure veterans receive the care they need.

Feliz, who has planned to retire in 2027, is now appealing his termination, calling the situation a “Pearl Harbor” moment. He’s not alone in feeling blindsided, as several of his colleagues have also lost their jobs unexpectedly.