On the Ground: Chairman Bost's Team Meets with VA Loma Linda Whistleblowers

Statement

"Since January, my office, along with Rep. Obernolte's office, have been listening to evidence from dozens of brave employees that work at VA Loma Linda sounding the alarm on the toxic work culture caused by what I believe are failures of certain Loma Linda leaders. Unfortunately, the problems at Loma Linda appear likely to be far greater than the issues identified in my April and July enquiries. It appears that failures in senior leadership are directly impacting the delivery of care and services to our veterans. Which is why under my leadership we will take their concerns seriously. Last week, my team met with numerous Loma Linda whistleblowers who were consistent in emphasizing that they believe that a few senior leaders have created a retaliatory culture at VA Loma Linda, causing mistrust, a toxic work culture, and bad results for veterans. Anyone with a shred of judgment would agree that's wrong. But earlier this month, the Biden administration deployed the Under Secretary for the entire Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Elnahal, to Loma Linda to whitewash the whole situation. I believe Dr. Elnahal appears to be taking the side of those at the top and casting doubt on these brave whistleblowers who are simply trying to serve veterans well. Apparently being the most "pro-union administration in American history" means putting those few individuals not doing right by veterans, including some of VA's senior leaders, ahead of the veterans themselves. VA Loma Linda employees, including every union employee, can rest assured that they will always have my ear and I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make the improvements that are clearly needed at this facility."

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