Wichita Standard

During a recent Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Richard Blumenthal questioned Doug Collins, the nominee for Secretary of Veterans Affairs, regarding the impact of President Donald Trump's federal hiring freeze on veterans' health care. Blumenthal expressed concern about potential negative effects on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) due to cost-cutting measures.

Blumenthal stated, “I was disappointed to see in the executive orders that a hiring freeze will be imposed, apparently, on the VA." He urged Collins to oppose efforts that might reduce access and eligibility for veterans' services.

The senator highlighted existing vacancies in positions crucial for veterans' care, including mental health providers. Blumenthal asked Collins whether the hiring freeze would apply to these roles and sought assurance that critical positions would not remain unfilled. “Will you seek an exemption to the hiring freeze for those positions that concern veterans’ care, including the Veterans Crisis Line?” he asked.

Collins acknowledged support for President Trump's initiative but indicated uncertainty about specific exemptions. "We are still examining that as well," he said. Despite Blumenthal's concerns, Collins maintained that the current workforce could address issues without additional hires.

Blumenthal emphasized this as a test of leadership for Collins: "Whether you fight for an exemption from a hiring freeze for non-veterans benefits employees who are needed to care for veterans."

The exchange reflects ongoing scrutiny over policies affecting veterans under the Trump administration. As Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Blumenthal has been vocal in defending veterans' benefits and opposing proposals perceived as harmful.