The Majority Report with Sam Seder 3534 - L.A. Vs ICE, DOGE's VA Disaster w/ Memo Torres & Brandon Roberts
Jul 9, 2025
Brandon Roberts, an investigative journalist at ProPublica, dives into the flaws of an AI program used by the VA, raising alarms about its impact on veteran services. Memo Torres, director of L.A. Taco, shares gripping insights on ICE's aggressive tactics against immigrant communities in Los Angeles, highlighting the crucial role of local journalism in these narratives. The conversation emphasizes the urgency of community awareness and the challenges posed by government oversight in addressing pressing social issues.
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Doge's AI Missteps at VA
- Sahil Lavinia from Doge used AI to quickly decide which VA contracts to cut with a 30-day deadline.
- Despite no relevant background, he applied AI with vague prompts on limited contract data, causing chaos and confusion at VA.
VA Contract Cuts Need Expertise
- AI cannot properly cut VA contracts without deep subject expertise and clear information.
- Using vague AI prompts without domain knowledge leads to unreliable and harmful decisions.
VA Cuts Endanger Critical Care
- VA contract cuts included critical services like suicide prevention and nurse recruitment.
- Impacts will be delayed, but internal confusion means vital programs are at risk due to poor decisions.