Senators Press VA Deputy Nominee on Firings, Elon Musk’s Role in VA Data

Paul Lawrence, President Trump's choice for Deputy Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), was grilled by the Senate on Wednesday about recent firings at the VA and how Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) might be involved in veterans' issues.

The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee was worried that 1,000 probationary workers, including VA researchers, had been fired. They also wanted to know if DOGE representatives had gotten access to personal health and benefits information about veterans.

Under Secretary for Benefits during Trump's first term, Lawrence told lawmakers that he would look into the firings and work to keep veterans' data safe. He did make it clear, though, that he doesn't have access to VA operations on the inside just yet because he hasn't been approved.

Senators were skeptical and pointed to VA news statements that said the firings were necessary to save money. Some politicians also worried that Musk's Department of Government Efficiency might be doing too much in the VA.

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) said, "The integrity of veterans' health care and benefits must be protected."  Sen. Duckworth continued, “We cannot let outside groups, especially private businesses, get in the way of VA business."

Lawrence promised to make the VA more open and accountable, but lawmakers have clarified that they may need to do more research before approving him.

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