Department leaders promised the dismissals will not hurt veterans' benefits or medical care and will save almost $100 million annually. Only the American flag and other state and military-related banners will be allowed to be displayed under the new department policy. VA Secretary Doug Collins will lead the Office of Government Ethics and the Office of Special Counsel until new directors are named. Increasing pay and benefits alone won't be enough to attract young people to the service, Army Secertary nominee Daniel Driscoll said. Officials said the staff changes are not part of larger efforts to eliminate diversity and inclusion programs from the department. Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of Jan. 27, 2025. Hegseth's confirmation vote was the narrowest ever for a defense secretary nominee. The moves come after a White House executive order mandating an end to federal equity and inclusion efforts. Nominee Doug Collins said he wants to expand VA's community care program while still strengthening the existing department health care system. The vote from the Senate Armed Services Committee sets up a full Senate confirmation vote on Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon later this week. Load More
