Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins confirms VA resources were diverted from veteran care to assist illegal migrants, sparking controversy and debate about the department’s priorities.
Key Takeaways
- VA Secretary Doug Collins discovered resources meant for veteran care were used to process health applications for illegal migrants
- Collins pledged to stop this redirection of resources, emphasizing the VA’s primary mission to serve veterans
- The VA did not provide medical procedures to illegal migrants at VA hospitals, but manpower was used to process their claims
- Collins assured that veteran benefits are secure and being improved, with faster case processing
- The Secretary expressed willingness to work with the Department of Government Efficiency to eliminate unnecessary expenses and redirect funds to veterans
VA Resources Diverted to Assist Illegal Migrants
In a recent interview on SiriusXM Patriot, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins revealed a controversial allocation of resources within the department. Collins confirmed that VA manpower had been diverted from veteran care to assist illegal migrants with their health needs, specifically in processing health applications.
This revelation has sparked concern among veterans and their advocates, raising questions about the VA’s priorities under the previous administration. Collins, who took office with a mandate to address internal issues at the VA, has vowed to put an end to this practice.
INSANE: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins confirmed that the Biden administration’s VA diverted “manpower” away from Veteran Care to help illegal aliens obtain health care. pic.twitter.com/QfwplYGgmm
— Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) February 19, 2025
Collins Addresses the Issue
During his interview, Collins provided more details about the extent of the resource allocation. He clarified that while illegal migrants were not receiving medical procedures at VA hospitals, VA manpower was indeed used to help process their health claims.
“I think what we’ve found…not maybe much invested, but — We actually took time away from what I’ll call Veteran Care to process health applications and stuff, is what we’ve seemed to find, and we’re still looking into this. That’s going to stop” stated Doug Collins. Collins emphasized further that this diversion of resources from veteran care would be halted immediately. He described the VA as a “broken” system that negatively impacts veterans, highlighting the need for significant reforms within the department.
Reassurances on Veterans’ Benefits
In light of the controversy, Secretary Collins has taken steps to reassure veterans about their benefits. He addressed concerns about potential cuts to veterans’ benefits, firmly stating that no such cuts are happening or planned.
Collins emphasized that veterans’ benefits are not only secure but are being improved. He pointed out that the Veterans Benefits Administration is now processing cases more quickly than before, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing services for veterans.
Collaboration with Department of Government Efficiency
Secretary Collins also addressed concerns about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and rumors regarding access to veterans’ personal information. He clarified that DOGE representatives are reviewing contracts to ensure efficient operations and proper allocation of resources to veterans’ services.
Collins expressed willingness to collaborate with DOGE to eliminate unnecessary expenses and redirect funds to veterans. This approach aligns with his commitment to improving the VA’s efficiency and effectiveness in serving the veteran community.
Moving Forward
As the VA moves forward under Secretary Collins’ leadership, the focus remains on prioritizing veterans’ needs and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately. Collins has promised ongoing transparency regarding developments at the VA and reinforced the department’s commitment to its mission under the current administration.
The controversy over resource allocation has highlighted the challenges facing the VA and the importance of maintaining a clear focus on serving veterans. As Secretary Collins works to address these issues, veterans and their advocates will be watching closely to ensure that the promises of improved care and benefits are fulfilled.
Sources:
VA Sec. Collins: Agency Used Manpower to Benefit Immigrants
VA Secretary Doug Collins addresses Veterans’ benefits in new video
