TO THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS AFFAIRS:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the nomination of Denis McDonough for Secretary of Veterans Affairs. He is an effective leader, sound manager, and a good and decent man.
McDonough’s extensive experience in the Executive and Legislative Branches, and his understanding of governmental functions, operations, and funding, will serve him well in leading an organization as large and complex as the Department. In particular, his past service as White House chief of staff, deputy national security adviser, and chief of staff of the National Security Council all provide McDonough with an intimate knowledge of how national security policy decisions directly impact the men and women who have served their nation in the Armed Forces, together with their spouses and families. Moreover, during his time in the Executive Branch, he worked closely and continually to improve health care options for those in need, including our veterans.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has long been a champion of veterans’ issues. Our Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) initiative launched in March 2011 as a nationwide effort to connect veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses with meaningful employment opportunities. To date, HOH has helped over 700,000 service members and military spouses in this regard, and we continue to work closely with both the Department and the Department of Defense on several impactful programs, including employment, skills training, and mental health and wellness programs.
We are confident that McDonough will serve as Secretary of Veterans Affairs with dedication and appreciation for those who have answered their nation’s call. We look forward to working with him and his team in this mission.
Thank you for scheduling the January 27 hearing on Mr. McDonough’s nomination and for continuing the Committee’s strong track record of bipartisan, expeditious action.
Sincerely,
Thomas J. Donohue
