Wichita Standard

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut and the Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, recently met with Doug Collins, who is expected to be nominated as Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The meeting focused on Collins' plans for serving veterans and their families.

Blumenthal emphasized the importance of leadership at the VA that prioritizes protecting and expanding healthcare and benefits for veterans. "I made clear to Doug Collins that VA needs a leader who is willing to protect and expand the health care and benefits our veterans have earned," Blumenthal stated. He also highlighted the need for strong support for VA employees, continued implementation of the PACT Act for toxic-exposed veterans, combating veteran suicide, opposing privatization of VA services, and maintaining reproductive rights for veterans.

Blumenthal expressed optimism about Collins' potential role in supporting veterans nationwide. "Based on our conversation, I am hopeful that Collins will provide his vision to support veterans in Connecticut and across the country at his nomination hearing – and argue why he’s the right candidate for the job."

President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Collins as VA Secretary on November 14, 2024. The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee is expected to hold a nomination hearing for Collins next week.