The recent wave of federal employee terminations by President Trump’s administration is disproportionately affecting veterans, who comprise 30% of government workers. Many of these veterans were Trump supporters, with Pew Research showing over 60% backed him in the 2024 election.

One Kansas veteran, speaking anonymously, likened the sudden terminations to a military withdrawal: “I’m sorry to put it like this: it was like the pull out of Afghanistan.” While still supporting Trump’s goal of reducing government size, he criticizes the implementation.

The administration’s approach focuses primarily on probationary employees, regardless of military service. In one concerning case, an agency terminated a probationary employee during active military deployment, potentially violating federal protections for Guard and Reserve members.

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The Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) has been particularly affected. The Kansas veteran found purpose there after serving in Afghanistan, saying, “At this position for the NRCS I have found my peace.”

While the Merit Systems Protection Board recently ordered reinstatement of 6,000 USDA workers for 45 days pending investigation, uncertainty remains as the administration challenges the board chair’s authority.

President Trump addressed the issue, stating, “We love our veterans. We’re going to take good care of them.” However, sources indicate veteran status wasn’t considered in termination decisions.

Republican lawmakers have worked quietly to address some concerns, securing exemptions for military spouses regarding in-person work requirements. Democrats have proposed reinstatement legislation but lack majority support.

Read more at CNN