A recent report by the AFL-CIO’s Department of People Who Work for a Living highlights significant concerns regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) Project 2025 agenda. Based on testimonies collected during field hearings across the country, the report indicates that mass firings and cuts to essential services are already affecting workers and communities.
The publication reveals disruptions in veterans’ care, Social Security checks, and worker safety. This week, NIOSH workers are advocating on Capitol Hill for Congress to restore vital programs.
“This is a warning from the workers across the country who keep Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid working, our veterans cared for and our jobsites safe,” stated AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This report gives Congress a clear choice: stand with the workers who put you in office, or let the Trump administration and an unelected billionaire dismantle the essential services that millions of hardworking Americans count on.”
Since January, numerous federal employees have lost their jobs due to Project 2025’s approach to reduce federal workforce numbers. The majority of these workers live outside Washington, D.C., which raises concerns about service disruptions and economic impacts if Congress endorses further budget cuts.
Statements from various regions underscore local impacts:
– In Alaska, Mike Macans of AFGE Local 1110 highlighted potential disaster response challenges.
– Liliana Jordan from National Nurses United/National Nurses Organizing Committee warned of job losses in Arizona’s Pima County Health District.
– Kristen Kiefer of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network emphasized risks to Medicaid-supported jobs in Georgia.
– Erik Steinmetz of Fire Fighters Local 2 expressed concerns over reduced safety research impacting firefighter readiness.
– Liz Harkins of AFGE Local 2604 detailed how staffing reductions could worsen VA service delays in Maine.
– Jessica Sweet of AFGE Local 3343 criticized attacks on Social Security infrastructure in New York.
– Christine Surrette from AFGE District 4 warned about systemic collapse risks at the Social Security Administration in North Carolina.
With ongoing budget discussions, this report emphasizes the consequences of DOGE’s actions on government services and local economies. The DPWL continues its efforts to ensure government responsiveness to working people through town halls, rallies, targeted campaigns, and advocacy initiatives.
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