Former Georgia Rep. Doug Collins advances toward VA secretary role

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Former Georgia Rep. Doug Collins is one step closer to becoming the next secretary of Veterans Affairs. 

What we know:

On Thursday, the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee approved his nomination with an 18-1 vote, according to The Hill. The only "no" vote came from Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, who raised concerns about Collins' plans for the department.

PREVIOUS: Trump nominates former Georgia Rep. Doug Collins to head VA

Hirono, a Democrat, said she opposed Collins because she believes he might reverse a rule from the Biden administration allowing the VA to provide abortions in cases of rape, incest, or when a pregnancy endangers the mother's life—even in states where abortion is restricted. Collins, a Navy veteran and Air Force Reserve chaplain, told the committee he would review the rule to ensure the VA is following federal law.

What they're saying:

Meanwhile, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, the committee’s top Democrat, expressed confidence in Collins. He said he was impressed by Collins’ focus on improving VA facilities, expanding health care under the Pact Act for veterans exposed to toxic substances, and addressing homelessness and suicide among veterans.

Collins’ nomination is expected to pass the full Senate easily, with a vote likely next week.

The backstory:

Collins, who was born in Gainesville, served as the U.S. representative for Georgia's 9th congressional district from 2013 to 2021. He previously served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013, representing the 27th district. After he left office in 2021, he served as legal counsel for Trump.