Renacci Statement On Secretary Shinseki's Resignation

Statement

Rep. Jim Renacci (OH-16) issued the below statement on the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki:

"Based on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Inspector General's interim report that was released earlier this week, it is clear that there are widespread systematic failures within the VA. The report's findings of concealed treatment delays and a bonus system that rewards ineffective leadership represent reprehensible mismanagement and gross negligence. As a veteran himself, Secretary Shinseki has the best intentions; however, he failed to address the enormous health care challenges that continue to plague the department that he led, so his resignation is necessary.

"However, the corruption within the VA is not isolated to one position. Secretary Shinseki's resignation opens the door for new leadership, which is certainly a step in the right direction. All of those who are responsible for the deplorable treatment of our nation's heroes must be held accountable so that our veterans receive the best possible care.

"Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they receive the care that they need once they return home. We need to bring more accountability to the VA, and just last week the House passed a bill that empowers the VA Secretary to demote or remove senior officials who are not doing their jobs. I am committed to ensuring that our veterans receive the timely care that they deserve, and I encourage my constituents to use our office as a resource -- we stand ready to assist anyone who may be experiencing issues with our local VA hospitals."

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