Wichita Standard

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, the Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, expressed concerns regarding a hiring freeze at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) before a committee vote to advance Doug Collins' nomination for VA Secretary. The hiring freeze was implemented by President Donald Trump earlier this week.

Blumenthal stated his intention to support Collins, citing his satisfactory responses and commitments toward improving veterans' services. "I’m going to support Doug Collins to be our next VA Secretary," said Blumenthal. He emphasized Collins' dedication to expanding the PACT Act for toxic-exposed veterans, upgrading VA facilities nationwide, and preventing veteran homelessness.

However, Blumenthal raised serious concerns about the hiring freeze affecting essential positions within the VA health care system. He noted that this could delay critical medical appointments and benefits for veterans, particularly in mental health care. "There’s openings now, they need to be filled – particularly for mental health care," Blumenthal remarked.

The committee voted 18-1 in favor of advancing Collins' nomination to the Senate floor for a confirmation vote. During his nomination hearing, Blumenthal urged Collins to oppose the hiring freeze at VA as it could impact veterans' access to earned benefits and affect positions already facing shortages.

Blumenthal also voiced apprehensions about potential regulatory changes under the Trump Administration concerning abortion counseling and care provided by the VA in cases of rape, incest, or risk to life or health of veterans.

Blumenthal concluded with optimism regarding Collins’ future role if confirmed: "If he’s confirmed... I welcome the opportunity to work and advocate with him in the Administration."