President-elect Donald Trump announced on Thursday evening that he has nominated one of his top former allies from the House of Representatives to serve as the head of Veterans Affairs.

“I am pleased to announce my intent to nominate former Congressman Doug Collins, of Georgia, as The United States Secretary for Veterans Affairs (VA),” Trump said. “Doug is a Veteran himself, who currently serves our Nation as a Chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command, and fought for our Country in the Iraq War.”

“We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need,” he continued. “Thank you, Doug, for your willingness to serve our Country in this very important role!”

Collins defended Trump during the two impeachments that he faced during his first term in office and against allegations that his 2016 campaign colluded with the Russian government.

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In a statement, Collins said that he was “honored to accept @realDonaldTrump’s nomination as Secretary of Veterans Affairs.”

“Our heroes deserve the best care and support,” he said. “We’ll fight tirelessly to streamline and cut regulations in the VA, root out corruption, and ensure every veteran receives the benefits they’ve earned.”

“Together, we’ll make the VA work for those who fought for us,” he added. “Time to deliver for our veterans and give them the world class care they deserve.”

Honored to accept @realDonaldTrump nomination as Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Our heroes deserve the best care and support.

We’ll fight tirelessly to streamline and cut regulations in the VA, root out corruption, and ensure every veteran receives the benefits they’ve earned.… pic.twitter.com/StWK0XcYAm

— Doug Collins (@RepDougCollins) November 14, 2024