Peace Garden News

The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee has moved forward with the nomination of Doug Collins to become the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The committee's decision was made with a vote of 18 to 1. President Trump initially nominated Collins for this position in November. As Secretary, Collins will be responsible for overseeing the Department of Veterans Affairs and ensuring that United States veterans receive their earned healthcare benefits.

Senator Kevin Cramer from North Dakota, who served alongside Collins in the House of Representatives for six years, introduced him at his confirmation hearing. Cramer referred to Collins as a “former colleague, friend, Navy veteran, military chaplain, and accomplished attorney.” He emphasized that while service providers are essential, "the most important person is the veteran, and that’s who Doug Collins will look out for."

Following his vote in favor of Collins' nomination, Senator Cramer released a statement expressing his support: “The Department of Veterans Affairs needs servant leadership with a keen focus on mission to take the helm. Doug Collins will fight tirelessly to improve access to timely and quality health care for veterans, whether at VA hospitals or local community providers. It’s time to deliver for our nation’s veterans, and I know Doug will do just that in this new role.”