WATCH: Citing IG Report of Abusive Work Environment, Sen. Ossoff Asks VA Secretary for Update on Replacing Augusta VA Leadership

Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff today asked the VA Secretary about leadership challenges at the Augusta VA impacting veterans’ care.
Sen. Ossoff,Ranking Memberof the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, today held a hearing about VA’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
Areport released this spring from the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG)found VA Augusta leaders fostered a “culture of fear” with a “threatening and abusive communication style” and allegedly retaliated against employees who shared concerns.
“I know the Acting Director was put on leave pending an investigation. I think that’s a positive step,”Ranking Member Ossoff said.“Can you confirm that it’s among your highest priorities to get a permanent new leadership staff in at Augusta?”
Following Sen. Ossoff’s push, Secretary Collins confirmed that the VA is prioritizing their search for permanent leadership at the Augusta VA.
Click here to watch Sen. Ossoff’s line of questioning about the Augusta VA.
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