WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) released the following statement regarding the resignation of VA Secretary Eric Shinseki:

“The story does not end today. This scandal does not end with someone resigning. The mismanagement at the VA goes beyond phony waiting lists, it is a widespread epidemic. Veterans are waiting for results, not scapegoats from their Commander-in-Chief.

“The President needs to show he is capable of leading. This is not a partisan or political issue; this is an American tragedy that we need to fix. We owe it to our older veterans, we owe it to those who are coming back home today, and we owe it to our future heroes who will serve our country. 

“The House took the first step in passing the VA Management and Accountability Act, and despite more than 160 House Democrats voting for the bill, the Senate has blocked it. Senator Reid, Mr. President, it’s time to act.”  

Item to Note:

• The New York Times editorial board said last week, “expressing outrage is hardly enough for a president who, as a candidate in 2008, criticized the agency and vowed to improve care and address backlogs.”

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