Derrick Van Orden U.S. House of Representatives from Wisconsin's 3rd district | Official U.S. House Headshot
Derrick Van Orden U.S. House of Representatives from Wisconsin's 3rd district | Official U.S. House Headshot
Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden from Wisconsin's Third District issued a statement following discussions with Elon Musk regarding budgetary cuts at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Agriculture.
The DOGE, while not directly controlling staffing or funding decisions for other departments, provides recommendations aimed at improving efficiency across federal agencies without compromising essential services.
"Last night, I spoke directly with Elon Musk about two populations that we have to look at with a different lens – veterans and farmers," stated Rep. Van Orden. "I shared how I have heard from constituents in Wisconsin’s Third regarding agency staffing and funding adjustments at the Executive Branch level. Mr. Musk was highly receptive and assured me DOGE will be more refined in their recommendations to ensure our vets and farmers are not hurt in the process of eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in federal spending. Despite Democrats’ fearmongering, those who are lawfully receiving these benefits will continue to do so."
Rep. Van Orden plans to meet with leaders from DOGE's VA and Agriculture teams to further address these concerns, focusing on issues such as the VA electronic service record system and Dairy Business Initiatives (DBI). "My number one priority is to ensure veterans benefits are uninterrupted and agricultural programs are protected. I am confident Mr. Musk and the DOGE team share that commitment," he added.
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