JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – Veterans from across the state are speaking out against the Trump Administrations cuts to government jobs which they say will negatively impact the already short-staffed VA system. Veterans took their concerns to the State Capitol supporting a national protest.

“It’s totally wrong to eliminate any services to the veterans right now,” said Retired Army Lt. Colonel John Anderson.

The Gulf War veteran of Brandon was among former service members and supporters objecting to Veteran Administration cuts that they said are also affecting former military members who work in the agency. The president has authorized laying off 80,000 VA workers nationwide.

“What needs to happen is add additional services, because we don’t have the services that we need already,” said Anderson. “In fact, the wait time is much longer than our civilian counterparts. So I think it’s totally wrong for the president and staff to cut any services”.

They came from Jackson, Laurel, Lucedale, Meridian, and more holding signs in support of veterans. The group said Veteran Administration and other government job cuts are pushing out veterans who are a given an advantage in hiring because of their military service.

“When I look at this administration I don’t see integrity. I don’t see service before self. I see self before service,” said Ed Butler, retired U.S. Air Force. “And I, definitely, with all those bankruptcies and all the failings all around us, look at the stock market today I do not see excellence”.

Christopher Golden lives in North Jackson and is upset an unelected government worker, Elon Musk, is in the official capacity to eliminate positions.

“We need you to get up to get to action. Get in there like you’ve been called to active duty,” said Golden, retired from the U.S. Air Force. “That’s what I’m doing, calling you all to active duty to come help us and fight and get the benefits that we fight for. You say you love us and thank you for your service. Well prove it”.

According to the Jackson VA, a small number of probationary staff were dismissed at the Jackson VA Health Care System. These decisions will have no negative effect on Veteran health care, benefits, or other services.

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