Senators used the hearing to probe how the department will handle personnel issues raised by the reorganization: voluntary buyouts, deferred‑resignation programs, rehiring decisions and possible disproportionate impacts on particular employee groups.

Key personnel numbers and concerns: senators repeatedly cited that roughly “15,000 employees” had left USDA overall (a figure referenced in opening remarks), that “1,600 employees have already left USDA research agencies,” and that some counties and state offices have lost dozens of staff. Several senators described employees feeling compelled to accept buyouts or buyouts being presented under threat of termination. Senator Peter Welch, among others, described instances where employees “felt the ax was coming down” and chose buyouts under pressure.

Department responses on workforce protections and assistance: Vaden said the memorandum “puts a thumb on the scale against future RIFs” and that RIFs would require his personal approval. He described relocation assistance available within statutory caps and noted that the department will provide options under VERA/VISAs where applicable. On disparate impact and diversity concerns, Vaden declined to commit to a preexisting disparate‑impact study, saying the plan had not been finalized, though he said civil‑rights responsibilities would be considered and employees would be treated equally. Several senators asked explicitly for disparate‑impact analyses; one senator characterized prior relocations of ERS/NIFA as producing a 65% decline in Black staff at that agency.

Unions and consultation: multiple senators and committee staff noted letters from the American Federation of Government Employees opposing the reorganization and requesting an impact assessment. Senator John Fetterman and others asked for enhanced union engagement; Vaden agreed to meetings and to provide relocation details and to work with unions during the consultation period.

Tribal relations and civil‑rights consolidation: Vaden said the memorandum calls for consolidating tribal relations functions within mission areas and for strengthening the Office of Tribal Relations to deliver statutorily required functions; he acknowledged the government‑to‑government relationship with tribal nations and pledged consultation.

Ending: Several senators requested written analyses and timelines on workforce impacts, civil‑rights implications and relocation costs; Vaden committed to follow‑up briefings and data submissions.