November 16, 2016

Acting Ranking Member Mark Takano Warns Against Putting Ideology Above Veterans

Washington, D.C. – Today, Acting Ranking Member Mark Takano released the following statement after a report published by The New York Times highlighted the role of the Koch-backed Concerned Veterans for America in guiding President-elect Donald Trump’s plan for supporting America’s veterans

“There are several outstanding veterans service organizations that could provide valuable input to the incoming Administration about supporting America’s veterans. The Concerned Veterans for America (CVA) is not one of those organizations. It is disappointing, but not surprising, that President-elect Trump and his team are working with such an extreme, conservative group instead of partnering with the many dedicated advocates who truly represent veterans’ interests.

“The ideas promoted by CVA, including moving the VA health system towards privatization, are not supported by a vast majority of veterans and would significantly disrupt their care. Nine million veterans rely on the VA health system every year, and studies show the care they receive is equal to or better than the care provided by private sector providers. The VA must be strengthened and modernized to improve veterans’ experience, not dismantled according to the ideological vision of a political group. It is worth noting that – unlike many veterans advocacy groups – CVA provides no actual services to veterans and exists only to advance its agenda. 

“I strongly advise President-elect Trump to seek guidance from the many veterans service organizations that put veterans first. Throughout his campaign, Donald Trump talked a lot about veterans. Now, it’s time for him to listen to them.”