Former Congressman Doug Collins Confirmed as Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Enhance Veteran Care

The confirmation of Doug Collins as Secretary of Veterans Affairs by the U.S. Senate marks a significant milestone for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the country's veterans. The former congressman and Air Force chaplain won the Senate's approval on a vote of 77 to 23, officially assuming the helm of the VA. This appointment comes with the expectation that Collins will be a strong advocate for active duty service members, veterans, and military families, ensuring they receive the vital support they need. The Department of Veterans Affairs, with a budget exceeding $350 billion, manages nearly 200 medical centers and hospitals nationwide, in addition to overseeing national cemeteries and collaborating with the Defense Department on personnel matters. Collins has pledged to cut regulations across the department and enhance the quality of care for veterans. The VA faces evolving challenges with a younger generation of veterans, particularly those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, presenting new health issues. Collins, an Iraq War veteran, expressed his understanding of these challenges, emphasizing the importance of addressing the specific needs of today’s veterans. From 2013 to 2021, Collins served in the House of Representatives, where he established himself as an outspoken conservative and a close ally of former President Trump. Despite running for Senate in 2020, Collins lost the Republican primary to Kelly Loeffler, a GOP donor subsequently appointed by Trump to lead the U.S. Small Business Association. Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D, praised Collins as an engaging personality with a profound empathy for fellow veterans, citing his experience as a chaplain as a testament to his ability to connect with those seeking support. The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved Collins’ nomination with overwhelming support, evidenced by an 18-1 vote. The lone dissenter, Sen. Mazie Hirono, raised concerns about Collins' potential impact on reproductive care access for veterans. Despite this dissent, Collins’ nomination received strong bipartisan backing, signifying a collective commitment to addressing the needs of veterans and their families.

Addressing Wait Times and Preventative Care

During his confirmation hearing, Collins emphasized his focus on addressing wait times and increasing preventative care for veterans. Recognizing the importance of timely access to medical services, he expressed his commitment to tackling the challenges that veterans face in receiving the care they deserve. This pledge to improve access to health services demonstrates Collins’ willingness to prioritize the well-being of veterans in his new capacity as Secretary.