During a tense town hall in Asheville, North Carolina, Rep. Chuck Edwards was confronted by angry constituents over cuts to federal programs, particularly the VA. One constituent demanded, “How do you justify cuts to the VA staff helping veterans?” The crowd erupted in applause, but Edwards defended the cuts, claiming no staff reductions had been made and praising Elon Musk’s contributions. However, an internal VA memo earlier this month suggested layoffs of 80,000 workers.

The heated exchange escalated, with security escorting Edwards out as the crowd shouted, “You don’t get to do this to us.” Republican leaders have advised members to avoid in-person town halls due to rising protests, but Edwards chose to go against this advice, claiming he trusted the people and their concerns, even if they disagreed with him.

The event highlighted growing frustration over the Trump administration’s cuts across federal agencies, including the VA, IRS, and Department of Education. Musk has also stirred controversy with suggestions to cut entitlement programs like Medicare and Social Security. Constituents voiced their fears about these changes, demanding Edwards ensure the protection of Social Security. Edwards reassured them, saying he would not vote to dissolve Social Security.