Episode Details

The federal government is facing a crisis of accountability and a race against the clock. In today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we tackle two massive stories affecting millions of American veterans and retirees. From untracked billions in government spending to the legislative battle to save Social Security, we look at the issues defining the 2026 midterm elections.

Segment 1: The VA’s $21 Billion Blind Spot

Jeff Stoffer, Director of the American Legion Media and Communications Division, discusses June’s American Legion Magazine, including a story about a staggering GAO report:

• The Software Mess: How the VA spent $21B on software it can’t track, and the legislation (H.R.6654) designed to force accountability.
• Data at Risk: Why a 1974 privacy law isn't enough to protect veteran health data in 2026.
• A Presidential Tribute: A preview of the July 4 grand opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, ND.

Segment 2: The Senior Voter Shift & Social Security’s Deadline

Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, brings fresh data from a survey of 1,000 likely voters age 60-plus:

• Midterm Momentum: Why seniors in 39 key swing districts are shifting toward Democrats by 3-4 points.
• The 2032 Cliff: A deep dive into the looming 25 percent benefit cut and the fight to scrap the $184,500 earnings cap.
• The Voting Record: How to use the Alliance's database to see where your representative actually stands on labor and retirement.

Take Action: Knowledge is power at the ballot box. Visit legion.org and retiredamericans.org to track the legislation discussed today.

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