Doug Collins Testifies in Senate Hearing for Veterans Affairs Secretary Confirmation

Collins pledges expanded care options for veterans while addressing concerns over costs, staffing, and abortion policy.

Doug Collins, President Trump's nominee for Veterans Affairs Secretary, testified before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, emphasizing his commitment to improving veteran care and benefits.
Collins voiced strong support for the Mission Act, allowing veterans to seek private care when VA services are delayed or inaccessible, despite concerns about rising costs and funding impacts on VA facilities.
Democratic senators questioned Collins on his stance regarding abortion services at VA facilities, with Collins indicating plans to review the legality of the Biden-era policy permitting limited abortion access.
Collins pledged to encourage VA employees to return to in-person work, aligning with a Trump executive order, while acknowledging challenges within the department's largely unionized workforce.
If confirmed, Collins aims to prioritize reducing appointment backlogs, enhancing mental health services, and ensuring accountability within the VA system.