The recent turmoil in Los Angeles has led to an unfortunate and deeply concerning situation for many of our veterans who depend on essential medical services. The Veterans Affairs Clinic in LA has been forced to shut down over 1,800 appointments, a move that has sparked outrage from various quarters, including the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins. He has pointed fingers at California’s leadership, particularly Governor Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass, for allowing chaos to ensue in the city. The clinic provides crucial services such as cancer care, suicide prevention, and treatments for traumatic brain injuries—services that are now inaccessible to those who so desperately need them.
It’s astounding to think that in the midst of all this chaos, the needs of our veterans are being sidelined. These men and women have served our nation, only to return home and find themselves unable to access the care they deserve because local authorities have let things spiral out of control. Collins has expressed his frustration, noting how the city has allowed rioters to run amok and disrupt vital services. Let’s face it, it’s a sorry reflection on city governance when buildings get graffitied and veteran clinics are forced to shut their doors.
The veterans who were set to visit the now-closed downtown clinic are now left in a lurch, wondering how they will receive the care they need. Secretary Collins highlights a harsh reality: not all veterans have the means to simply find another clinic or hop on a bus to get the care they require. It raises the question—why is the city not stepping in to ensure these heroes are not left without essential services? The plight of these veterans seems to be ignored by local leaders who are more focused on their image than resolving the issue right in their backyard.
Collins made it clear that the so-called “peaceful rioters” are anything but, and it’s not just police officers who are feeling the impact. Everyday citizens, especially veterans—often homeless ones—are also caught in the crossfire. It seems California’s leadership is more concerned with avoiding tough decisions than taking tangible action to protect and serve those who have given so much for their country. The lack of concern for the real victims in this scenario is baffling and frankly, inexcusable.
On another front, it seems the federal government’s delay in confirming key VA appointments is adding to the complexity. The Senate has held up appointments, including for veterans who served and are slated to take on significant roles in veteran services. The ongoing political games only exacerbate the suffering of those who should be our highest priority. Let us not forget that bureaucracy should never stand in the way of our veterans receiving the prompt care and services they deserve. It’s high time priorities were reevaluated—and veterans are placed at the top of the list where they belong.
