On Tuesday, February 13, 2025, the U.S. Senate confirmed Doug Collins as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs with a resounding 77-23 vote. Collins, a former Georgia congressman and an Air Force chaplain, received strong bipartisan support, securing votes from all Senate Republicans and a significant number of Democrats. This overwhelming vote highlighted the widespread confidence in his ability to lead the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a critical agency responsible for serving the nation’s veterans.

Doug Collins’ confirmation marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those who have served in the military. As the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Collins will now lead an agency that provides essential services such as healthcare, pensions, educational benefits, and more to veterans across the country. The VA, which is one of the largest and most complex federal agencies, serves millions of veterans each year, and its mission is to ensure that these individuals receive the care and support they need after their service.

Collins’ appointment comes at a time when the VA faces numerous challenges, including long wait times for medical care, reports of inefficiency, and concerns about the rising rates of suicide among veterans. During his confirmation process, Collins committed to tackling these issues head-on. He emphasized the importance of streamlining processes within the VA to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and improve the quality of care for veterans. Collins has also made it clear that addressing the mental health crisis within the veteran community will be one of his top priorities. The issue of veteran suicides is a deeply concerning problem, with recent studies showing that veterans are at a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the general population.

One of Collins’ key goals as Secretary will be to reduce wait times for medical services at VA hospitals and clinics, which have long been a source of frustration for veterans. The issue of delays in care has been a longstanding problem within the VA, and Collins will need to work closely with the Department of Defense and other agencies to ensure that veterans receive timely medical attention. In addition to improving healthcare access, Collins will be tasked with addressing the VA’s staffing shortages and ensuring that veterans have access to qualified healthcare providers.

Another critical area of focus for Collins will be improving the overall efficiency of the VA. The department has faced criticism in recent years for its bureaucracy and slow response times, and Collins will need to implement reforms to streamline operations. This may involve increasing the use of technology to better manage patient records, enhance communication between VA facilities, and improve the overall experience for veterans seeking services. In his confirmation testimony, Collins highlighted the importance of collaboration with Congress and nonprofit organizations to foster a more effective and responsive VA system.

Collins’ background as a former congressman and Air Force chaplain makes him uniquely qualified for the role of Secretary of Veterans Affairs. As a member of the House of Representatives, Collins earned a reputation as a dedicated advocate for veterans. He served on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, where he worked on legislation aimed at improving healthcare, benefits, and services for veterans. His deep understanding of the issues facing veterans, combined with his leadership experience, will be invaluable as he takes on this new role.
As an Air Force chaplain, Collins also brings a strong sense of duty and commitment to the well-being of those who have served in the military. His military background has provided him with a firsthand understanding of the challenges that veterans face, particularly when it comes to adjusting to civilian life after service. Collins has long been a vocal advocate for providing veterans with the support they need to thrive after their time in the military, and his leadership of the VA will likely be shaped by this commitment.

Collins’ confirmation was met with praise from both Republicans and Democrats, who recognized his extensive experience and commitment to veterans. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) called Collins “a dedicated public servant who has long fought for the men and women who have served our country.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) also voiced support for Collins, noting his bipartisan approach and dedication to ensuring that veterans receive the care and respect they deserve.

In his new role as Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Collins faces a significant challenge, but also an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of veterans. He will work closely with Congress, the Department of Defense, and nonprofit organizations to enhance support for veterans, ensuring that they receive the care and services they have earned through their service. The confirmation of Doug Collins as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs signals a renewed commitment to addressing the needs of veterans and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the VA. With his leadership, the department may be poised for a new era of reform and progress, one that prioritizes the well-being of those who have served the nation.