June 27, 2018, Fairfax, Va.—Americans for Limited Government President Rick Manning today issued the following statement in support of Robert Wilkie to serve as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs:
“Today the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs is taking up the nomination of Acting VA Secretary and Under Secretary of Defense and Personnel Readiness, Robert Wilkie to VA Secretary. Since he became Acting Secretary two months ago, Wilkie has demonstrated his commitment to the veteran community by helping persuade Congress to pass the VA MISSION Act, making it easier for veterans to obtain care.
“Wilkie also knows what it is to serve our nation, as he has done in and out of uniform, as he is still in the Reserves. He knows the toll service can take on families. He comes from a long line of service members, including his father, a highly decorated Vietnam soldier wounded three times.
“As Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel & Readiness, Wilkie oversaw the Military Health System, one of the largest healthcare systems in the country. With over 130,000 employees, over 400 clinics, and over 10 million beneficiaries. Wilkie knows how to run a healthcare system with specific needs for veterans.
“Not only is Wilkie eminently qualified for the position, but he has also earned the endorsement of the major Veteran Services Organizations, something extremely hard to do in today’s environment. The Senate should move quickly to confirm Robert Wilkie as Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Now is not the time for political games or obstruction. The VA has serious issues, and Robert Wilkie is the right person at the right time.”
Interview Availability: Please contact Americans for Limited Government at 703-383-0880 ext. 1003 or at media@limitgov.org to arrange an interview with ALG experts.
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