Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch issued the following statement regarding General Eric Shinseki’s resignation as Secretary of Veterans Affairs:

“President Coolidge once said; “The nation which forgets it defenders, will be itself forgotten.”  The “systemic” problems at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) suggest that too many people have forgotten our defenders.  As Americans we have a commitment to ensure our veterans have fair and equal access to the healthcare and benefits they have earned and justly deserve.  Sadly, I am concerned that more problems will be uncovered in the coming months and reports.  Secretary Shinseki’s resignation is encouraging, but only a serious and sustained effort will fix this troubled agency.  It is past time for the President to take leadership and tackle the troubles at the VA.”

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