Veterans Protest Nationwide Against Potential VA Cuts, Local Rally Held in Cathedral City

A wave of protests swept across the country today as U.S. veterans and their supporters took to the streets to oppose potential cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Locally, Cathedral City saw dozens gather in solidarity with veterans facing the prospect of reduced medical programs and job cuts. One of the most vocal participants in Cathedral City was Tom Hernandez, a blind veteran living with HIV/AIDS. He credits the VA with saving his life through rehabilitation services and essential medical treatment. “They taught me how to cook. They gave me a computer. They’ve done marvelous things for me,” Hernandez said. “If they cut these programs for blind veterans, it’ll be devastating.”

According to an internal VA memo reported by the Associated Press in March, thousands of jobs have already been lost in a wave of post-pandemic federal workforce reductions. The memo warns of as many as 80,000 additional positions on the chopping block—cuts that could deeply impact veterans who rely on specialized medical care. For Hernandez, those cuts aren’t just numbers—they’re personal. “I go to the doctor four times a year. I do blood work. I get my HIV medication from the VA. If the budget gets cut, I may not get that medicine.”

The protests stem from a bill recently passed by the House of Representatives that has raised alarms within the veteran community. Organizers stress that the demonstration transcends political affiliation. “We don’t ask about politics. We're here to stand up for the people who fought for our freedom,” said one protestor.

Another veteran, Glenn Shubert, emphasized the goal of the protests: to ensure that lawmakers fight to preserve VA funding. “We want to make sure our voices are heard, especially by representatives like Mr. Calvert,” Shubert stated.

Congressman Ken Calvert responded to the concerns, issuing a statement: “There are no cuts to veteran benefits for VA funding. I recently spoke with VA Secretary Doug Collins and stressed the importance of ensuring veterans receive the benefits and care they are entitled to.”

While the bill has cleared the House, it still requires approval by the Senate before becoming law. Veterans and their allies say they plan to keep fighting. For them, this isn’t just a political issue—it’s about preserving a lifeline. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs.