Walz Works to Hold VA Accountable

Statement

Today, Representative Tim Walz (MN-01) and the VA Committee voted to subpoena certain emails and written correspondence from VA officials, including Secretary Shinseki, in an effort to provide oversight and get to the bottom of allegations of a secret waitlist at the Phoenix, Arizona VA hospital. Representative Walz released the following statement.

"My number one goal as both a veteran and a member of this committee is to ensure our warriors receive the support and care they have earned and deserve. I will be VA's strongest ally, but also their harshest critic when warranted. The allegations coming out of the Phoenix VA are extremely troubling and, while the independent Inspector General is conducting their own investigation, it's important for Congress to continue to provide oversight as well.

"That is why today we sent a very reasonable and necessary request for information regarding concerns stemming from allegations surrounding the Phoenix VA. The subpoena was necessary because the previous response from VA was not sufficient for the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee to conduct proper oversight.

"Critically this subpoena is specific in scope as to not interfere with the ongoing independent investigation by the Inspector General. We must get to the bottom of these allegations and, if any wrongdoing occurred, hold accountable those that are responsible. Our veterans deserve nothing less."

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