WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, released the following statement today:

"The nation learned today that Secretary R. James Nicholson, of the Department of Veterans Affairs, is resigning from the President's cabinet.  Having worked with the Secretary and his staff over the past two years during some challenging times, including an under-funded VA during his early tenure in office, I have found him willing to work with the Committee and the Congress on behalf of our nation's veterans.  I wish him well in his future endeavors."

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