Veterans groups slam Senate Democrats for blocking wounded warrior’s VA nomination

Senate Democrats are facing criticism from veterans’ groups and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins for delaying key agency nominations, including that of wounded warrior Sam Brown. Brown, a former Nevada senatorial candidate and Army captain who was severely injured in Afghanistan, was nominated by President Donald Trump as undersecretary for memorial affairs, overseeing veterans’ burial ceremonies and cemeteries.

Despite receiving favorable reports from the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Brown and other nominees have been held up by Senate Democrats Richard Blumenthal and Ruben Gallego. The lawmakers claim their actions are aimed at halting mass firings and other Trump-era policies within the VA. This has led to frustration among veterans’ groups, who are calling for the confirmation of Brown and other qualified nominees.

The delay in confirming these nominees has raised concerns about the impact on services for veterans, with organizations like the Vietnam Veterans of America and the Independence Fund urging prompt confirmation. The Senate VA Committee has attempted to move the nominations forward, but have been blocked by Blumenthal and Gallego.

In response to the criticism, Blumenthal has cited concerns about the lack of information provided to the committee and the need for accountability within the VA. However, Secretary Doug Collins has refuted these claims, emphasizing the importance of reforming the department to better serve veterans. Collins has accused Senate Democrats of prioritizing political games over the well-being of veterans.

The ongoing standoff between Senate Democrats and the VA has left the confirmation of key nominees in limbo, with the fate of veterans’ services hanging in the balance. As the debate continues, the focus remains on ensuring that qualified individuals like Sam Brown can take on crucial roles within the VA to support those who have served our country.