VA Secretary Confronts Reporter Over Rumor-Based Article on DOGE Operations

Doug Collins criticized Military.com journalist Patricia Kime for publishing unverified claims that he says caused unnecessary fear among veterans and VA employees.

Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, challenged reporter Patricia Kime during an interview, accusing her of spreading unverified rumors in her February article about DOGE activities at the VA.
Collins took issue with the article's claims that DOGE representatives were accessing VA computer systems to mine sensitive data, which he stated were false and misleading.
The VA clarified that a single DOGE liaison is employed to improve efficiency and manage waste but does not have access to veterans' or beneficiaries' personal data.
Collins emphasized the importance of accurate reporting, stating that unsubstantiated claims harm veterans and VA staff by creating unnecessary fear and confusion.
The exchange, shared on social media, has drawn mixed reactions, with some defending Kime's reporting and others supporting Collins' call for more responsible journalism.