VA Secretary addresses Veterans’ concerns in a video. (Photo: U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs)
In a recently released video message from his office at the VA Central Office, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins directly addresses concerns circulating about potential cuts to Veterans’ benefits.
Collins began the video by calling out the media for spreading speculation, stating, “Hey everybody. It’s Doug again. I can’t believe it. I’ve been here about a week, and, you know, the one thing that hasn’t changed about DC, it’s the media up here that like to tell you stuff that they want you to believe.”
He firmly denies any cuts to Veterans’ benefits, asserting, “I’m the Secretary of VA, I’m gonna tell you right now, that’s not happening . . . Reality is, Veterans’ benefits aren’t getting cut. In fact, we are actually giving and improving services in our Veterans Benefits Administration.”
Collins went on to talk about the efficiency of the VA, stating that cases are being cleared faster than ever. He reinforces the mission of the VA, stressing that his team is focused on delivering the best services possible.
“We’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing,” he says.
In the video, he also addresses rumors about the Department of Government Efficiency, DOGE, reassuring viewers that its representatives are not compromising Veterans’ personal data.
“There’s also this rumor out there that DOGE is out there, is this infamous thing, it’s gonna take personal information and do that,” Collins said. “I’m telling you what, we have DOGE representatives here that are doing what they’re supposed to be doing, and that is looking at our contracts, making sure that we have the best run facility for efficiently.”
VA Secretary Collins says he is happy to partner with DOGE “to find things we need to get rid of so we can put the money where it belongs—Back with our Veteran.”
Collins concludes the video by reiterating his commitment to transparency and accountability. “If you want the real truth, come see me,” he stated.
His video message comes at a time White House officials announced that Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins will temporarily lead the Office of Government Ethics and the Office of Special Counsel as the administration restructures both agencies. Some lawmakers are questioning whether he can effectively manage multiple departments simultaneously.
Despite the controversy, a VA spokesperson assured the public that Collins is already making significant progress. “Sec. Collins looks forward to ensuring OSC and OGE uphold their important responsibilities while the administration finds permanent leaders for both organizations.”
The White House has yet to announce its timeline for naming permanent replacements for the two oversight offices, along with Collins’ deputy secretary at VA and two of the three undersecretary positions requiring Senate confirmation.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.