WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans, particularly those in Congress, have been overwhelmingly supportive of broad cuts across the federal government at the hands of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. But some, including Virginia 2nd District Rep. Jennifer Kiggans, have had words of caution. Facing blowback from constituents fearful of job reductions, some Republicans have begun voicing public concerns about Musk and the swift spending slashes he’s made in an effort to downsize the federal workforce.

Kiggans represents Virginia Beach and its large U.S. Navy presence. It has the highest concentration of civilian federal workers, at 8.1%, of all congressional districts represented by Republicans. Earlier this month, Kiggans wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, asking him to limit layoffs for veterans. She expressed concern that eliminating waste could mean unintentional harm for a key GOP constituency.

“We all understand the overarching goal, where we’re going to: again, downsizing, cutting spending. But how are we getting there? And I think there’s just some places to provide a gentle reminder along the way that, please look out for our veterans,” Kiggans said.

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