VA Secretary Doug Collins Confronts CNN Over Veteran Defamation Case During Heated Interview

VA Secretary Doug Collins Confronts CNN Over Veteran Defamation Case During Heated Interview

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins engaged in a tense exchange with CNN, criticizing the network for what he described as a hostile attitude toward veterans. He pointed out that CNN had previously defamed U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young.

In a Wednesday interview with CNN host Kaitlan Collins, Secretary Collins declined to engage with questions regarding the use of the messaging app Signal by Trump officials that focused on a military operation against Houthi targets in Yemen.

The VA Secretary asserted that he had addressed the Signal issue previously, emphasizing his commitment to discussing issues related to veterans and their care.

Questioning CNN’s Commitment to Veterans

During the interview, Secretary Collins stated, “I have a question as VA Secretary… I want to ask you because I’ve been curious about this because my job is to take care of veterans. Why does CNN appear hostile towards veterans like the one in Florida who is the subject of a $5 million defamation suit?” His comments reflected a frustration over what he perceives as a lack of support for those who have served the country.

Collins went on to challenge CNN’s commitment to veterans, prompting him to inquire why the network seemed to have issues with individuals who have served in the military.

Deflection on Key Issues

Host Kaitlan Collins attempted to redirect the conversation back to the original question about the app Signal. She acknowledged the need to investigate veteran-related issues but felt that the Secretary’s focus was elsewhere. The Secretary interrupted her, emphasizing the importance of discussing ongoing veteran care and the hard work of VA employees.