WASHINGTON, July 9 – Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued the following statement today after meeting on Tuesday with Robert McDonald, President Barack Obama’s nominee to be secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs:

“I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with Mr. McDonald and was impressed by what he brings to the table. I believe that his years of military service will make him a very strong advocate for veterans, and that his corporate leadership gives him the experience to bring about the management changes – in terms of accountability and transparency – that the VA needs. 

“I also believe that he understands that if the VA is going to provide quality and timely health care for all eligible veterans, the department needs to have enough doctors, nurses and other medical professionals to meet our veterans’ needs. 

“I look forward to holding a confirmation hearing as soon as possible. 

“Meanwhile, the committee will hold a hearing next Wednesday with Acting Secretary Gibson to see what progress has been made toward providing health care for veterans on long waiting lists and addressing other issues.”