Department of Veterans Affairs is Under Intense Scrutiny

Craig Boswell is on Capitol Hill with Congress’ response.

 

“ALL THOSE IN FAVOR OF THE MOTION TO ISSUE THE SUBPOENA SAY AYE.   (AYE).”

 

The committee is looking into the deaths of as many as 40 veterans at the VA Hospital in Phoenix who were waiting for tests and appointments.. and secret waiting lists hiding the number of veterans not being seen on time.

 

“I TAKE EVERY ONE OF THESE INCIDENTS AND ALLEGATIONS SERIOUSLY AND WE’RE GOING TO GO AND INVESTIGATE, THE MOST SERIOUS OF THESE IN PHOENIX.”

 

Debbie Allen’s husband Mel…a Vietnam Vet…died of bladder cancer after his diagnosis was delayed.

 

(SOT:  Debbie Allen/Widow of VA Patient)

“THEY TURNED THEIR BACK ON HIM.  THEY MADE UP THIS SECRET LIST TO LIE AND COVER UP WHAT WAS HAPPENING.”

 

(STANDUP:  Craig Boswell/CBS News/Washington, D.C.)

Five other V-A hospital are also accused of patient deaths that could have been prevented.. and some lawmakers say Secretary Eric Shinseki needs to go.

 

(SOT:  Sen. John Cornyn/(R) Texas)

“IT’S TIME FOR HIM TO STEP DOWN AND MAKE WAY FOR NEW LEADERSHIP.”

 

The American Legion…one of the country’s largest veterans organizations…is also calling for Shinseki to resign.

 

(SOT:  Daniel Dellinger/American Legion)

“IF THIS WAS THE PRIVATE SECTOR, HE WOULD BE FIRED.  IF IT WAS THE MILITARY, HE WOULD BE RELIEVED OF DUTY.”

 

President Obama has expressed confidence in Secretary Shinseki’s leadership at the VA.

 

Craig Boswell, CBS News, Capitol Hill.>