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AMVETS statement on VA secretary nominee AMVETS views former Congressman Doug Collins as a strong nominee to become the next secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. President-Elect Donald Trump announced Mr. Collins will be his nominee to lead the VA after the incoming administration is installed in January. “After hearing from Representative Collins and the transition team senior staff, it is clear to AMVETS that he has a firm understanding of how important the VA and its polices are to veterans and their families,” said AMVETS National Executive Director Joe Chenelly. “He has committed to safeguarding veterans’ benefits and addressing the VA’s key issues.” AMVETS applauds President-Elect Trump for nominating a Post-9/11 veteran who served in the Navy and the Air Force. AMVETS calls for the U.S. Senate to conduct a thorough but swift confirmation process. “The VA cannot afford a prolonged absence of a confirmed secretary,” Chenelly said. “The VA will continue facing significant challenges in its vital work, needing its new leader to be confirmed to effectively lead as soon as possible.” The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) continues to include management of VA healthcare and VA acquisition management on its list of “high risk” government operations. “We cannot afford any lapse in leadership at the VA, especially at the secretary level,” Chenelly said. “The transition between administrations naturally brings uncertainty, as polices are examined. Veterans and VA employees need the stability that comes with a confirmed secretary.” AMVETS looks forward to working with the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs through the confirmation process and with Secretary Collins if confirmed. PDF of statement: https://www.amvets.org/_files/ugd/b2f715_3626ed054c62414a898d6bea2364207d.pdf (fb)