Hegseth won’t rule out military actions against Greenland, Panama
The defense secretary dodged questions from lawmakers about possible Defense Department plans against the allied territories.
Veterans
Former VA Secretary McDonough to host town hall countering DC parade
The Friday night discussion on veterans issues is part of a series of events from Democrats scheduled around the controversial Army parade in Washington.
House panel pushes ahead $453 billion funding plan for VA next year
The appropriations plan would add more than $80 billion to the current VA funding level, giving the department its biggest budget ever.
Panel advances defense budget despite missing details from White House
The $832 billion defense spending plan provides no increase from current fiscal year funding levels.
Bipartisan House proposal aims to speed up defense acquisition work
The proposal could be the template for significant reform plans this year in how the military plans and buys new weapons systems.
Transgender vet sues VA over decision to halt hormone therapy meds
VA officials in March announced plans to end all transgender-related health care programs, a move advocates say will hurt veterans.
Hegseth returns to Capitol Hill to defend Trump’s defense budget plan
Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of June 8, 2025.
‘Unite for Vets’ rally calls for Trump to abandon planned cuts at VA
Thousands of veterans gathered in Washington on Friday to rally against potential cuts to veterans services and staffing.
Advocates lament Pentagon policies targeting women’s military service
Veterans visited congressional offices this week to deliver messages of concern over recent Pentagon moves targeting the roles of women in the military.
Trump’s pick for VA watchdog role promises independence, impartiality
Former Board of Veterans Appeals Chair Cheryl Mason said her work with the Trump administration should not disqualify her from a federal watchdog role.
GOP plan provides $453 billion for VA programs, benefits next year
The spending plan for Veterans Affairs next year is up significantly from current levels but is about $1 billion less than what the White House wanted.
IAVA names former Marine Corps pilot Kyleanne Hunter as next CEO
Hunter becomes the second woman to lead the advocacy group's efforts in highlighting the challenges of young veterans.
Advocates for homeless vets wary over proposed changes to VA programs
VA Secretary Doug Collins has promised to keep focus and funding on programs to help homeless vets, but community groups still worry about possible cuts.
Top lawmaker says VA, DOD leaders continue to ignore Hill requests
Sen. Richard Blumenthal said administration officials aren't providing basic information to Congress on looming plans for massive changes.
Advocates push Senate to drop changes in 90/10 rule for vets benefits
A provision in the Republican-backed reconciliation bill would roll back restrictions on what federal funds for-profit colleges can receive.
Hegseth, Collins promise fixes to post-military transition programs
VA and Pentagon leaders plan to review veteran transition programs to ensure separating troops are getting the support they need.
Pentagon orders review of military homeschool assistance programs
Officials will look at what support services are provided to families who teach their students at home and whether additional help is needed.
