Todays news from Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.): President Obama Taps Ex P&G Exec to Lead VA: President Barack Obama plans to nominate former Proctor & Gamble executive Robert McDonald as the next Veterans Affairs secretary. Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders said he looks forward to meeting with McDonald to get his views on important issues which, Sanders said, include increased funding for the VA to hire more doctors, nurses and other medical staff, The Associated Press reported. Chairman Sanders is ‘Neutral’ and ‘Cautious’: Sen. Sanders “offered a neutral reaction to Mr. Obama’s choice,” The New York Times reported. He “struck a neutral tone,” The Wall Street Journal said. Sanders “delivered a cautious statement on the news,” according to The Washington Post. A Fox News Radio reporter interpreted what Sanders’ statement means for McDonald’s confirmation prospects: “That doesn’t say it’s going to be a slam dunk.” Sanders plans to meet McDonald next week, the Los Angeles Times reported. Sanders said he is looking forward to learning more of McDonalds views on the needs of the agency, USA Today, The Washington Times, CNN and Politico reported. VA Needs More Doctors, Sanders Says: “Bernie Sanders of Vermont said we need more doctors and we need more resources at the VA,” John Harwood said on CNBC. Sanders said VA needs greater transparency and accountability and more doctors, nurses and other medical staff so all veterans who are eligible get high-quality health care in a timely manner, Fox News and WTOP-AM news radio in Washington, D.C., reported. Court Rulings Due on Unions, Health Care: On the last day of this year’s term, The Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling in a case challenging the ability of public-sector unions to collect fees from workers who decline to join. Also on tap is a ruling in another case involving the Affordable Care Act—this time on whether the religious beliefs of owners of for-profit enterprises give them the right to opt out of the laws requirement of contraception coverage for employees, The Wall Street Journal reported. Continue reading here: sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/newswatch/063014
Posted on: Mon, 30 Jun 2014 13:11:34 +0000