VA Secretary Makes Major Announcement
Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins says he’s “thrilled” by a new Senate proposal that would secure full funding for America’s veterans through next fall — calling it a “huge step forward” for those who’ve sacrificed everything to defend our freedom.
Appearing on Newsmax’s “Newsline” Monday, Collins said the Senate appropriations bill would guarantee stable funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs until September 2026, ensuring that veterans’ programs are never again jeopardized by Washington’s budget chaos.
“This keeps us from being caught up in the same political mess every January,” Collins said. “It’s good for our veterans, good for our country, and long overdue.”
He emphasized that long-term funding will allow the VA to focus on what truly matters — serving America’s heroes without interruptions or red tape.
“We can finally move past the political games and get back to taking care of those who wore the uniform,” he added.
🔹 “Not Over Until It’s Over,” Collins Cautions
Despite his optimism, Collins — a former member of Congress — said he knows how unpredictable Washington can be.
“I was in Congress for eight years,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve learned nothing’s final until the ink is dry. But this bill gives us real hope.”
🔹 Veterans Feeling the Pain of the Shutdown
Collins didn’t sugarcoat the reality of the ongoing government shutdown, confirming that it’s already hurting veterans nationwide.
“Yes, our veterans are getting hurt,” he said. “Many are waiting on their benefits — educational aid, transition assistance — and that’s unacceptable.”
He reassured Americans that VA hospitals, clinics, and disability payments remain open and operational, but warned that political gridlock is still taking a toll.
“This should never happen,” Collins stressed. “It’s heartbreaking to hear politicians talk about using the ‘pain of people’ as leverage. That pain is real — and it’s being felt by veterans.”
🔹 Freedom Comes at a Price — Veterans Pay It
As Veterans Day approaches, Collins reminded Americans of the true cost of liberty.
“Our veterans are the reason we have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press,” he said. “Those freedoms weren’t handed down by politicians or lawyers — they were earned by the men and women who stood up, fought, and served this great nation.”
Collins urged Americans to honor those sacrifices and to support long-term stability for the VA so that no veteran is ever left behind again.
“Freedom isn’t free,” he concluded. “It’s paid for by our heroes — and we owe them nothing less than our full support.”
