WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, Doug Collins received confirmation from the U.S. Senate as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs, taking charge of a vital department dedicated to supporting America’s veterans. A former congressman and Iraq War veteran, Collins was approved with a 77-23 vote, marking his entry into President Donald Trump’s Cabinet.
In a statement regarding Collins’ nomination, President Trump emphasized the necessity of caring for military personnel, stating, “We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and military families to ensure they have the support they need.”
The Department of Veterans Affairs oversees a vast budget exceeding $350 billion and is responsible for nearly 200 medical facilities, alongside national cemeteries. It collaborates closely with the Defense Department on various personnel-related issues.
Collins has made it clear that he intends to streamline regulations within the department while improving health care quality for veterans. The challenges the VA faces have shifted notably in recent years, as a newer generation of veterans brings different health concerns stemming from their experiences in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.
“I’m an Iraq War veteran. I understand burn pits because I slept next to one for many months,” Collins articulated during his initial remarks at the confirmation hearing in January. He expressed his awareness of the hurdles that veterans encounter today, particularly those who have faced numerous deployments in conflict zones.
His tenure in the House of Representatives lasted from 2013 to 2021. Known as a staunch conservative, Collins maintained a close alliance with Trump throughout the latter’s first term and even campaigned for a Senate position in 2020, although he ultimately lost the Republican primary to Kelly Loeffler, a notable GOP financier who is set to lead the U.S. Small Business Association.
Senator Kevin Cramer, a Republican from North Dakota, praised Collins as a “friend” with a personality that effectively engages people in his initiatives. He noted, “It’s not that they’re better doctors or better psychiatrists or better nurses or technicians. It’s that they’re empathetic,” referring to the benefits of having someone who understands the military experience in a leadership role. Cramer added, “But, guys, he’s a chaplain. I mean, come on, how perfect is that?”
Collins’ nomination proceeded smoothly through the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, passing with an 18-1 vote. The sole opposing voice, Senator Mazie Hirono from Hawaii, raised concerns that Collins might restrict veterans’ access to reproductive services, including IVF and abortion.
Senator Tammy Duckworth, a Democrat from Illinois, engaged Collins in their conversation during the confirmation hearing, urging him to commit to enhancing the department’s capabilities rather than considering privatization options. Collins assured that his focus would revolve around reducing wait times and promoting preventive health care options.
