Former Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Donna Shalala condemned the Trump administration’s measures aimed at reducing her former department, labeling them an affront that jeopardizes American health.
In an op-ed piece published Thursday, Shalala criticized the administration for “shaming a generation of patriotic federal employees, suggesting a foolish new bureaucracy, and appointing anti-science and anti-government figures lacking both experience in leadership and management.”
“That’s precisely what you should expect if you do not desire a meaningful positive influence on the nation’s health, welfare, and future,” she remarked.
Shalala, who was HHS secretary from 1993 to 2001 under President Clinton, described the Trump administration’s choices as “extremely misguided” regarding departmental personnel.
“It is profoundly incorrect to dismiss 10,000 people from HHS, which has already seen over 10,000 employees leave voluntarily. I have encountered numerous exemplary civil servants within HHS—thoughtful, passionate, innovative, and diligent. If HHS is to be redefined, it must collaborate with civil servants who have the deepest understanding,” she asserted.
She further noted that officials in the Trump administration fail to comprehend the significant role HHS plays in the U.S. economy.
“The present administration is headed by individuals who do not grasp the tremendous influence of HHS leadership and its programs on our economy and future,” she remarked.
On Thursday, the Trump administration revealed plans to eliminate approximately 25% of its staff, igniting a wave of alarms from Democrats, former officials, and policy analysts regarding the potential repercussions for American health.
In an announcement, HHS Director Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the department intends to restructure and cut about 10,000 jobs through layoffs, with plans to eliminate another 10,000 positions through buyouts, early retirements, and administrative “forks in the road” offers.
In response to this decision, Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) convened a press event on Thursday afternoon alongside Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.).
“Today’s announcement does not merely signify a restructuring of the Department of Health and Human Services; it represents a disaster for American healthcare,” Markey remarked.
The Hill has reached out to HHS for feedback.
