The first U.S. Army Green Beret ever elected to Congress, Rep. Mike Waltz, is defending former President Donald Trump against accusations that he does not care about military servicemembers or veterans. Waltz, who leads the Veterans for Trump coalition, emphasized Trump's support for the military during a recent press conference in Chicago.
Waltz criticized Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris, for discrepancies in his military record. In response to allegations that Trump disregards the military, Waltz highlighted Trump's actions, pointing to the VA MISSION Act as a significant piece of legislation benefiting veterans.
The VA MISSION Act, also known as Veterans Choice, was passed under President Trump in 2018. This bipartisan legislation allows veterans to seek care from local doctors if VA hospitals are unable to provide timely services. Waltz praised Trump for his support of Gold Star families, noting a specific instance where Trump spent extended time with them, contrasting with Biden's alleged lack of attention to these families.
Waltz emphasized the bipartisan nature of the VA MISSION Act, which received overwhelming support in Congress. Despite some opposition, the Act passed with strong bipartisan backing, reflecting its importance in improving veterans' access to healthcare.
Notably, then-Rep. Tim Walz was among the few Democrats who opposed the VA MISSION Act. Walz expressed concerns about potential privatization of the VA under the Trump administration, citing the need for vigilant oversight to prevent adverse impacts on veterans' care.
Waltz's defense of Trump's commitment to the military comes amidst ongoing debates about the former President's attitudes towards servicemembers. By highlighting legislative achievements and personal interactions with veterans, Waltz aims to showcase Trump's support for the military community.
