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==2017== | ==2017== | ||
| − | Secretary of Veterans Affairs [[David Shulkin]] stated on June 7, 2017, that improving the [[Department of Veterans Affairs]] was a "top priority" for the Trump Administration.<ref>Persons, Sally (June 7, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/7/david-shulkin-says-veterans-health-care-reform-top/ Shulkin says veterans health care reform a ‘top priority’]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Hayward, John (June 22, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2017/06/22/va-secretary-david-shulkin-20-veterans-day-taking-their-lives-totally-unacceptable/ VA Secretary David Shulkin: ‘We Have 20 Veterans a Day Taking Their Lives; That’s Totally Unacceptable’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 22, 2017.</ref> Shulkin, a holdover from the Obama Administration, admitted that the Trump Administration was "quicker" and "more decisive" than the previous one,<ref>Bedard, Paul (June 26, 2017). [ | + | Secretary of Veterans Affairs [[David Shulkin]] stated on June 7, 2017, that improving the [[Department of Veterans Affairs]] was a "top priority" for the Trump Administration.<ref>Persons, Sally (June 7, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/7/david-shulkin-says-veterans-health-care-reform-top/ Shulkin says veterans health care reform a ‘top priority’]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Hayward, John (June 22, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2017/06/22/va-secretary-david-shulkin-20-veterans-day-taking-their-lives-totally-unacceptable/ VA Secretary David Shulkin: ‘We Have 20 Veterans a Day Taking Their Lives; That’s Totally Unacceptable’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 22, 2017.</ref> Shulkin, a holdover from the Obama Administration, admitted that the Trump Administration was "quicker" and "more decisive" than the previous one,<ref>Bedard, Paul (June 26, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/obama-holdover-trump-style-quicker-more-decisive/article/2627061 Obama holdover: Trump style 'quicker, more decisive']. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 27, 2017.</ref> and he moved to modernize the department during his tenure.<ref>Hayward, John (August 1, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2017/08/01/secretary-shulkin-v-modernization-wait-times-posted-online-day-service-emergencies/ Secretary Shulkin on V.A. Modernization: Wait Times Posted Online, Same-Day Service for Emergencies]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 1, 2017.</ref> The Trump Administration worked aggressively and effectively to improve the VA, and Shulkin received bipartian support.<ref>Multiple references: |
*Allen, Arthur (August 28, 2017). [https://www.politico.com/story/2017/08/28/trump-shuklin-veterans-obama-holdover-242047 Trump’s most popular Cabinet secretary is Obama holdover]. ''Politico''. Retrieved August 28, 2017. | *Allen, Arthur (August 28, 2017). [https://www.politico.com/story/2017/08/28/trump-shuklin-veterans-obama-holdover-242047 Trump’s most popular Cabinet secretary is Obama holdover]. ''Politico''. Retrieved August 28, 2017. | ||
*Crookston, Paul (August 28, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/politics/shulkin-bipartisan-praise-changes-va/ Shulkin Receives Bipartisan Praise for Changes at VA]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved August 28, 2017. | *Crookston, Paul (August 28, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/politics/shulkin-bipartisan-praise-changes-va/ Shulkin Receives Bipartisan Praise for Changes at VA]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved August 28, 2017. | ||
| − | *[ | + | *[https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/a-good-start-at-reforming-the-veterans-administration/article/2637837 A good start at reforming the Veterans Administration]. ''Washington Examiner''. October 18, 2017. Retrieved October 18, 2017.</ref> |
===Legislation signed, 2017=== | ===Legislation signed, 2017=== | ||
| − | *April 19, 2017—President Trump signed an extension of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014, which allowed veterans to seek medical care outside the VA system due to serious VA problems.<ref>Boyer, Dave (April 19, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/apr/19/donald-trump-signs-extension-veterans-choice-healt/ Trump turns focus to veterans, signs extension for choice in health care]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 19, 2017.</ref><ref>Westwood, Sarah (April 19, 2017). [ | + | *April 19, 2017—President Trump signed an extension of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014, which allowed veterans to seek medical care outside the VA system due to serious VA problems.<ref>Boyer, Dave (April 19, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/apr/19/donald-trump-signs-extension-veterans-choice-healt/ Trump turns focus to veterans, signs extension for choice in health care]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 19, 2017.</ref><ref>Westwood, Sarah (April 19, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/trump-signs-bill-allowing-veterans-to-seek-care-outside-broken-va-system/article/2620659 Trump signs bill allowing veterans to seek care outside broken VA system]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved April 19, 2017.</ref> |
*June 2, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law giving preference in federal grants to "federal and state law enforcement agencies that hire and train veterans".<ref name="PoliceVets">Multiple references: | *June 2, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law giving preference in federal grants to "federal and state law enforcement agencies that hire and train veterans".<ref name="PoliceVets">Multiple references: | ||
| − | *[ | + | *[https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/06/02/trump-signs-bills-to-help-police-officers-veterans.html Trump signs bills to help police officers, veterans]. ''Fox News''. June 2, 2017. Retrieved June 2, 2017. |
*Spiering, Charlie (June 3, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/03/trump-signs-bills-assisting-law-enforcement-behind-you-100-percent/ Donald Trump Signs Bills Assisting Law Enforcement: ‘We Are Behind You 100 Percent’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 3, 2017.</ref> | *Spiering, Charlie (June 3, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/03/trump-signs-bills-assisting-law-enforcement-behind-you-100-percent/ Donald Trump Signs Bills Assisting Law Enforcement: ‘We Are Behind You 100 Percent’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 3, 2017.</ref> | ||
| − | *June 23, 2017—President Trump signed the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act into law (Trump described the law as "one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history"<ref>Westwood, Sarah (June 23, 2017). [ | + | *June 23, 2017—President Trump signed the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act into law (Trump described the law as "one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history"<ref>Westwood, Sarah (June 23, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/trump-signs-one-of-the-largest-reforms-to-the-va-in-its-history/article/2626924 Trump signs 'one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history']. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 23, 2017.</ref>), which expanded protections for VA whistleblowers, gave the VA the authority to end bonuses to convicted employees, made quicker and easier the process for firing, suspending, and demoting employees.<ref>Multiple references: |
| − | *Chakraborty, Barnini (June 23, 2017). [ | + | *Chakraborty, Barnini (June 23, 2017). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/06/23/trump-signs-va-reform-bill-following-through-on-campaign-promise.html Trump signs VA reform bill, following through on campaign promise]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved June 23, 2017. |
*Fabian, Jordan (June 23, 2017). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/339168-trump-signs-va-reform-bill Trump signs VA reform bill]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved June 23, 2017. | *Fabian, Jordan (June 23, 2017). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/339168-trump-signs-va-reform-bill Trump signs VA reform bill]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved June 23, 2017. | ||
*Boyer, Dave (June 23, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/23/donald-trump-signs-va-accountability-act-law-promi/ Trump signs VA accountability act into law, promises better care for veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 23, 2017. | *Boyer, Dave (June 23, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/23/donald-trump-signs-va-accountability-act-law-promi/ Trump signs VA accountability act into law, promises better care for veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 23, 2017. | ||
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*Dinan, Stephen (August 12, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/12/donald-trump-signs-vets-bill-keep-veterans-choice-/ Trump signs vets bill to keep veterans choice program afloat]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 14, 2017. | *Dinan, Stephen (August 12, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/12/donald-trump-signs-vets-bill-keep-veterans-choice-/ Trump signs vets bill to keep veterans choice program afloat]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 14, 2017. | ||
*[https://www.breitbart.com/news/trump-signs-bill-to-fund-veterans-medical-care-program/ Trump signs bill to fund veterans medical care program]. ''Breitbart News''. August 12, 2017. Retrieved August 14, 2017. | *[https://www.breitbart.com/news/trump-signs-bill-to-fund-veterans-medical-care-program/ Trump signs bill to fund veterans medical care program]. ''Breitbart News''. August 12, 2017. Retrieved August 14, 2017. | ||
| − | *Gehrke, Joel (August 12, 2017). [ | + | *Gehrke, Joel (August 12, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/trump-signs-bill-helping-vets-get-access-to-private-medical-care/article/2631366 Trump signs bill helping vets get access to private medical care]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved August 14, 2017.</ref> |
*August 16, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law expanding GI benefits for veterans, including removing a 15-year time limit on using GI benefits and giving veterans additional payments for science, engineering, and technology courses at universities, among other provisions.<ref>Multiple references: | *August 16, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law expanding GI benefits for veterans, including removing a 15-year time limit on using GI benefits and giving veterans additional payments for science, engineering, and technology courses at universities, among other provisions.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
*[https://www.voanews.com/a/trump-signs-bill-expanding-college-assistance-veterans/3989137.html Trump Signs Bill Expanding College Assistance for Veterans]. ''Voice of America'' (from the ''Associated Press''). August 16, 2017. Retrieved August 17, 2017. | *[https://www.voanews.com/a/trump-signs-bill-expanding-college-assistance-veterans/3989137.html Trump Signs Bill Expanding College Assistance for Veterans]. ''Voice of America'' (from the ''Associated Press''). August 16, 2017. Retrieved August 17, 2017. | ||
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*Superville, Darlene (August 17, 2017). [https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/higher-education/trump-signs-bill-expanding-college-assistance-for-veterans/2017/08/16/11c24232-82ec-11e7-9e7a-20fa8d7a0db6_story.html Veterans get expanded college assistance under Trump]. ''The Washington Post'' (from the ''Associated Press''). Retrieved August 17, 2017.</ref> | *Superville, Darlene (August 17, 2017). [https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/higher-education/trump-signs-bill-expanding-college-assistance-for-veterans/2017/08/16/11c24232-82ec-11e7-9e7a-20fa8d7a0db6_story.html Veterans get expanded college assistance under Trump]. ''The Washington Post'' (from the ''Associated Press''). Retrieved August 17, 2017.</ref> | ||
*August 23, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law streamlining and making more convenient the process for veterans to appeal disability benefit claims.<ref>Multiple references: | *August 23, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law streamlining and making more convenient the process for veterans to appeal disability benefit claims.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| − | *Pappas, Alex (August 23, 2017). [ | + | *Pappas, Alex (August 23, 2017). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/08/23/trump-signs-historic-veterans-bill-at-american-legion-convention.html Trump signs ‘historic’ veterans bill at American Legion convention]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. |
*Wentling, Nikki (August 23, 2017). [https://www.stripes.com/in-reno-trump-signs-bill-to-overhaul-va-appeals-process-1.484155#.WZ7KFCiGNPY In Reno, Trump signs bill to overhaul VA appeals process]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | *Wentling, Nikki (August 23, 2017). [https://www.stripes.com/in-reno-trump-signs-bill-to-overhaul-va-appeals-process-1.484155#.WZ7KFCiGNPY In Reno, Trump signs bill to overhaul VA appeals process]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | ||
*Arter, Melanie (August 23, 2017). [https://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/melanie-arter/trump-signs-bill-streamline-va-disability-claims-appeals-process Trump Signs Bill to Streamline VA Disability Claims Appeals Process]. ''CNS News''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | *Arter, Melanie (August 23, 2017). [https://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/melanie-arter/trump-signs-bill-streamline-va-disability-claims-appeals-process Trump Signs Bill to Streamline VA Disability Claims Appeals Process]. ''CNS News''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | ||
*Mitchell, Ellen (August 23, 2017). [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/347717-trump-signs-bill-to-speed-up-veteran-disability-appeals-process Trump signs bill to speed up veteran disability appeals process]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | *Mitchell, Ellen (August 23, 2017). [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/347717-trump-signs-bill-to-speed-up-veteran-disability-appeals-process Trump signs bill to speed up veteran disability appeals process]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved August 24, 2017. | ||
See also: | See also: | ||
| − | *Schallhorn, Kaitlyn (August 23, 2017). [ | + | *Schallhorn, Kaitlyn (August 23, 2017). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/08/23/trump-to-sign-veterans-bill-in-nevada-heres-what-it-does.html Trump to sign veterans bill in Nevada: Here's what it does]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved August 24, 2017.</ref> |
===Executive actions, 2017=== | ===Executive actions, 2017=== | ||
*April 27, 2017—President Trump signed an executive order creating an office in the Department of Veterans Affairs to investigate obstacles preventing the VA from firing incompetent employees, and to protect those who reveal cases of incompetence in the department.<ref>Wong, Kristina (April 27, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/04/27/trump-signs-executive-order-to-hold-va-employees-accountable/ Trump Signs Executive Order to Hold VA Employees Accountable]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 27, 2017.</ref> | *April 27, 2017—President Trump signed an executive order creating an office in the Department of Veterans Affairs to investigate obstacles preventing the VA from firing incompetent employees, and to protect those who reveal cases of incompetence in the department.<ref>Wong, Kristina (April 27, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/04/27/trump-signs-executive-order-to-hold-va-employees-accountable/ Trump Signs Executive Order to Hold VA Employees Accountable]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 27, 2017.</ref> | ||
| − | *June 5, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs announced it would adopt the same medical records system as the Defense Department in order to bring better care for veterans.<ref>Boyer, Dave (June 5, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/5/donald-trump-overhaul-va-medical-records-system-li/ Trump to overhaul VA medical records system to link with Pentagon]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 5, 2017.</ref><ref>Singman, Brooke (June 5, 2017). [ | + | *June 5, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs announced it would adopt the same medical records system as the Defense Department in order to bring better care for veterans.<ref>Boyer, Dave (June 5, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/5/donald-trump-overhaul-va-medical-records-system-li/ Trump to overhaul VA medical records system to link with Pentagon]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 5, 2017.</ref><ref>Singman, Brooke (June 5, 2017). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/06/05/veterans-affairs-to-adopt-same-medical-record-system-as-pentagon.html Veterans Affairs to adopt same medical records system as Pentagon]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved June 5, 2017.</ref> |
*July 7, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs made public its disciplinary actions against its employees,<ref>Multiple references: | *July 7, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs made public its disciplinary actions against its employees,<ref>Multiple references: | ||
*[https://www.newsmax.com/US/US-Veterans-Affairs/2017/07/07/id/800407/ VA Makes Public Its Disciplinary Action Against Employees]. ''Newsmax''. Retrieved July 7, 2017. | *[https://www.newsmax.com/US/US-Veterans-Affairs/2017/07/07/id/800407/ VA Makes Public Its Disciplinary Action Against Employees]. ''Newsmax''. Retrieved July 7, 2017. | ||
*Wentling, Nikki (July 7, 2017). [https://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/va-employee-disciplinary-actions-are-now-public-information-1.477125#.WV_ZgIjyuUk VA employee disciplinary actions are now public information]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved July 7, 2017. | *Wentling, Nikki (July 7, 2017). [https://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/va-employee-disciplinary-actions-are-now-public-information-1.477125#.WV_ZgIjyuUk VA employee disciplinary actions are now public information]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved July 7, 2017. | ||
*Rosiak, Luke (July 7, 2017). [https://dailycaller.com/2017/07/07/va-to-post-employee-firings-stop-rewarding-employees-for-bogus-discrimination-claims/ VA To Post Employee Firings, Stop Rewarding Employees For Bogus Discrimination Claims]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved July 8, 2017.</ref> and it reported that day having fired over 500 employees since January 2017 and suspending nearly 200.<ref>Multiple references: | *Rosiak, Luke (July 7, 2017). [https://dailycaller.com/2017/07/07/va-to-post-employee-firings-stop-rewarding-employees-for-bogus-discrimination-claims/ VA To Post Employee Firings, Stop Rewarding Employees For Bogus Discrimination Claims]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved July 8, 2017.</ref> and it reported that day having fired over 500 employees since January 2017 and suspending nearly 200.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| − | *Westwood, Sarah (July 7, 2017). [ | + | *Westwood, Sarah (July 7, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/trump-administration-has-fired-more-than-500-va-employees-since-january/article/2627988 Trump administration has fired more than 500 VA employees since January]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved July 7, 2017. |
*Heretik, Jack (July 7, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/more-than-500-va-employees-fired-trump-administration/ More Than 500 VA Employees Fired During Trump Administration]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved July 8, 2017. | *Heretik, Jack (July 7, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/more-than-500-va-employees-fired-trump-administration/ More Than 500 VA Employees Fired During Trump Administration]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved July 8, 2017. | ||
*Rodriguez, Katherine (July 10, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/07/10/va-trump-admin-fires-500-employees-suspends-200-misconduct/ VA Under Trump Admin Fires More Than 500 Employees, Suspends 200 for Misconduct]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 11, 2017. | *Rodriguez, Katherine (July 10, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/07/10/va-trump-admin-fires-500-employees-suspends-200-misconduct/ VA Under Trump Admin Fires More Than 500 Employees, Suspends 200 for Misconduct]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 11, 2017. | ||
*Erickson, Bo; Watson, Ellee (July 7, 2017). [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hundreds-of-va-officials-fired-since-trumps-inauguration/ Hundreds of VA officials fired since Trump's inauguration]. ''CBS News''. Retrieved July 8, 2017. | *Erickson, Bo; Watson, Ellee (July 7, 2017). [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hundreds-of-va-officials-fired-since-trumps-inauguration/ Hundreds of VA officials fired since Trump's inauguration]. ''CBS News''. Retrieved July 8, 2017. | ||
| − | *Zimmerman, Malia (July 20, 2017). [ | + | *Zimmerman, Malia (July 20, 2017). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/07/20/va-has-fired-500-employees-since-trump-took-office-report-shows.html VA has fired 500 employees since Trump took office, report shows]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved July 20, 2017.</ref> |
*August 3, 2017—The Trump Administration added several new services to the VA's telehealth program, making it easier for veterans to obtain health care services such as through letting them conduct medical examinations remotely and giving them the ability to schedule appointments electronically.<ref>Multiple references: | *August 3, 2017—The Trump Administration added several new services to the VA's telehealth program, making it easier for veterans to obtain health care services such as through letting them conduct medical examinations remotely and giving them the ability to schedule appointments electronically.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
*[https://www.voanews.com/a/donald-trump-new-health-care-initiatives-veterans/3971175.html Trump Announces New Health Care Initiatives for Veterans]. ''Voice of America''. August 3, 2017. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | *[https://www.voanews.com/a/donald-trump-new-health-care-initiatives-veterans/3971175.html Trump Announces New Health Care Initiatives for Veterans]. ''Voice of America''. August 3, 2017. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | ||
*Boyer, Dave (August 3, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/3/donald-trump-va-show-new-service-help-veterans-sch/ Trump, VA show off new service to help veterans schedule doctor visits]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | *Boyer, Dave (August 3, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/3/donald-trump-va-show-new-service-help-veterans-sch/ Trump, VA show off new service to help veterans schedule doctor visits]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | ||
*Heretik, Jack (August 3, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/trump-shulkin-unveil-vas-telehealth-program/ Trump and Shulkin Unveil VA’s Telehealth Program]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | *Heretik, Jack (August 3, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/trump-shulkin-unveil-vas-telehealth-program/ Trump and Shulkin Unveil VA’s Telehealth Program]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved August 3, 2017. | ||
| − | *Kasperowicz, Pete (August 3, 2017). [ | + | *Kasperowicz, Pete (August 3, 2017). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/trump-rolls-out-new-telehealth-services-for-veterans/article/2630516 Trump rolls out new telehealth services for veterans]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved August 3, 2017. |
*Przybyla, Heidi M. (August 3, 2017). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2017/08/03/trump-touts-veterans-affairs-tele-health-program/536526001/ Trump touts Veterans Affairs 'tele-health' program with new appointment scheduling application]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved August 3, 2017.</ref> | *Przybyla, Heidi M. (August 3, 2017). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2017/08/03/trump-touts-veterans-affairs-tele-health-program/536526001/ Trump touts Veterans Affairs 'tele-health' program with new appointment scheduling application]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved August 3, 2017.</ref> | ||
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*According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate of U.S. military veterans in October 2017 had fallen to a record low of 2.7%, mirroring the decreasing unemployment rate under President Trump.<ref>Multiple references: | *According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate of U.S. military veterans in October 2017 had fallen to a record low of 2.7%, mirroring the decreasing unemployment rate under President Trump.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| − | *[ | + | *[https://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/11/07/veteran-unemployment-rates-fall-to-record-low-in-october.html Veteran unemployment rates fall to record low in October]. ''Fox News''. November 7, 2017. Retrieved November 8, 2017. |
*Rodriquez, Katherine (November 8, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/08/veteran-unemployment-rate-falls-record-low-2-7-percent-october/ Veteran Unemployment Rate Falls to Record Low 2.7 Percent in October]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 8, 2017.</ref> | *Rodriquez, Katherine (November 8, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/08/veteran-unemployment-rate-falls-record-low-2-7-percent-october/ Veteran Unemployment Rate Falls to Record Low 2.7 Percent in October]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 8, 2017.</ref> | ||
==2018== | ==2018== | ||
In 2018, President Trump and his administration continued working to help veterans.<ref>Multiple references: | In 2018, President Trump and his administration continued working to help veterans.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (November 15, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/nov/15/donald-trump-touts-achievements-veterans/ Trump touts achievements for veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved November 15, 2018. | ||
*Keller, Megan (November 11, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/416142-pence-trump-administration-fought-for-veterans Pence: 'Veterans have no better friend than President Trump']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 11, 2018. | *Keller, Megan (November 11, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/416142-pence-trump-administration-fought-for-veterans Pence: 'Veterans have no better friend than President Trump']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 11, 2018. | ||
| − | *Pence, Mike (November 11, 2018). [https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/vice-president-mike-pence-veterans-day-veterans-have-no-better-friend-than-president-trump Vice President Mike Pence: Veterans Day – Veterans have no better friend than President Trump]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved November 11, 2018.</ref> | + | *Pence, Mike (November 11, 2018). [https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/vice-president-mike-pence-veterans-day-veterans-have-no-better-friend-than-president-trump Vice President Mike Pence: Veterans Day – Veterans have no better friend than President Trump]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved November 11, 2018. |
| + | *Tata, Anthony J. (December 3, 2018). [https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/president-trump-and-our-veterans-are-winning-against-an-entrenched-va-bureaucracy President Trump – and our veterans – are winning against an entrenched VA bureaucracy]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 24, 2019.</ref> | ||
===Legislation signed, 2018=== | ===Legislation signed, 2018=== | ||
| Line 73: | Line 75: | ||
*Morrongiello, Gabby (June 6, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/white-house/trump-signs-va-mission-act-into-law-to-give-veterans-more-healthcare-choices Trump signs VA Mission Act into law to give veterans more healthcare choices]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | *Morrongiello, Gabby (June 6, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/white-house/trump-signs-va-mission-act-into-law-to-give-veterans-more-healthcare-choices Trump signs VA Mission Act into law to give veterans more healthcare choices]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | ||
*Arter, Melanie (June 6, 2018). [https://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/melanie-arter/trump-signs-va-mission-act-give-veterans-access-private-health-care Trump Signs VA Mission Act to Give Veterans Access to Private Health Care]. ''CNS News''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | *Arter, Melanie (June 6, 2018). [https://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/melanie-arter/trump-signs-va-mission-act-give-veterans-access-private-health-care Trump Signs VA Mission Act to Give Veterans Access to Private Health Care]. ''CNS News''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | ||
| − | *[ | + | *[https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2018/06/06/trump-signs-bill-to-expand-private-care-for-veterans.html Trump signs bill to expand private care for veterans]. ''Fox News'' (from the ''Associated Press''). June 6, 2018. Retrieved June 7, 2018. |
*Slack, Donovan (June 6, 2018). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2018/06/06/trump-signs-law-expanding-vets-healthcare-choices/673906002/ Trump signs VA law to provide veterans more private health care choices]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | *Slack, Donovan (June 6, 2018). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2018/06/06/trump-signs-law-expanding-vets-healthcare-choices/673906002/ Trump signs VA law to provide veterans more private health care choices]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | ||
*Risk, Richard (June 6, 2018). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2018/06/06/trump-signs-55-billion-bill-replace-va-choice-program.html Trump Signs $55 Billion Bill to Replace VA Choice Program]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | *Risk, Richard (June 6, 2018). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2018/06/06/trump-signs-55-billion-bill-replace-va-choice-program.html Trump Signs $55 Billion Bill to Replace VA Choice Program]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | ||
*Spiering, Charlie (June 6, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/06/06/trump-d-day-veterans-choice-bill/ Donald Trump Recognizes D-Day and Signs Veterans Choice Bill]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | *Spiering, Charlie (June 6, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/06/06/trump-d-day-veterans-choice-bill/ Donald Trump Recognizes D-Day and Signs Veterans Choice Bill]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. | ||
See also: | See also: | ||
| − | *Shaffer, Tony (June 6, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/real-change-finally-comes-to-the-va-thanks-to-trump Real change finally comes to the VA, thanks to Trump]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 7, 2018.</ref> | + | *Shaffer, Tony (June 6, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/real-change-finally-comes-to-the-va-thanks-to-trump Real change finally comes to the VA, thanks to Trump]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 7, 2018. |
| + | *[https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/editorials/to-honor-veterans-day-enforce-the-mission-act To honor Veterans Day, enforce the Mission Act]. ''Washington Examiner''. November 11, 2019. Retrieved November 11, 2019.</ref> | ||
===Executive actions, 2018=== | ===Executive actions, 2018=== | ||
| − | *January 9, | + | *January 9, 2018—President Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to expand mental health services for veterans in order to reduce the number of veteran suicides.<ref>Multiple references: |
*Boyer, Dave (January 9, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/jan/9/trump-executive-order-vets-mental-health-service/ Trump signs executive order expanding mental health services for new veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved January 10, 2018. | *Boyer, Dave (January 9, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/jan/9/trump-executive-order-vets-mental-health-service/ Trump signs executive order expanding mental health services for new veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved January 10, 2018. | ||
*[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-veterans/trump-orders-mental-health-aid-for-military-veterans-to-prevent-suicide-idUSKBN1EY1WW Trump orders mental health aid for military veterans to prevent suicide]. ''Reuters''. January 9, 2018. Retrieved January 10, 2018. | *[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-veterans/trump-orders-mental-health-aid-for-military-veterans-to-prevent-suicide-idUSKBN1EY1WW Trump orders mental health aid for military veterans to prevent suicide]. ''Reuters''. January 9, 2018. Retrieved January 10, 2018. | ||
| Line 96: | Line 99: | ||
*Wentling, Nikki (September 18, 2018). [https://www.stripes.com/news/va-cites-improvements-at-five-hospitals-removed-from-high-risk-list-1.548113 VA cites improvements at five hospitals removed from 'high-risk' list]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved September 19, 2018. | *Wentling, Nikki (September 18, 2018). [https://www.stripes.com/news/va-cites-improvements-at-five-hospitals-removed-from-high-risk-list-1.548113 VA cites improvements at five hospitals removed from 'high-risk' list]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved September 19, 2018. | ||
*Biery, Maria (September 18, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/5-poorly-performing-va-hospitals-ready-to-graduate-from-high-risk-list-report 5 poorly performing VA hospitals ready to graduate from high-risk list: Report]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 19, 2018.</ref> | *Biery, Maria (September 18, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/5-poorly-performing-va-hospitals-ready-to-graduate-from-high-risk-list-report 5 poorly performing VA hospitals ready to graduate from high-risk list: Report]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 19, 2018.</ref> | ||
| + | *November 8, 2018—The VA announced it would end the practice of "official time" for its medical employees, where they get paid for working for their unions rather than for what they were hired to do.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (November 12, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/nov/12/trump-administration-ends-va-official-time-payment/ 'Union business on the taxpayer's dime': Trump administration cracks down on 'official time' at VA]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved November 13, 2018. | ||
| + | *McMorris, Bill (November 12, 2018). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/trump-admin-ends-official-time-policy-va/ Trump Admin Ends Official Time Policy for VA]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved November 13, 2018. | ||
| + | *Greszler, Rachel (November 12, 2018). [https://www.dailysignal.com/2018/11/12/trump-is-cracking-down-on-wasted-time-and-money-at-the-va/ Trump Is Cracking Down on Wasted Time and Money at the VA]. ''The Daily Signal''. Retrieved November 13, 2018. | ||
| + | *Davidson, Joe (November 8, 2018). [https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2018/11/09/va-skirting-court-order-kills-official-time-medical-professionals/ VA, skirting court order, kills ‘official time’ for medical professionals]. ''The Washington Post''. Retrieved November 13, 2018. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo; Bur, Jessie (November 9, 2018). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/2018/11/09/va-unions-spar-over-move-to-end-physicians-use-of-official-time/ VA, unions spar over move to end physicians’ use of ‘official time']. ''Military Times''. Retrieved November 13, 2018.</ref> | ||
===Other achievements, 2018=== | ===Other achievements, 2018=== | ||
| Line 109: | Line 118: | ||
*Altman, Howard (November 1, 2018). [http://www.tampabay.com/news/military/veterans/Number-of-homeless-veterans-in-Tampa-Bay-dropping-faster-than-nationwide_173166790 Number of homeless veterans in Tampa Bay dropping faster than nationwide]. ''Tampa Bay Times''. Retrieved November 1, 2018. | *Altman, Howard (November 1, 2018). [http://www.tampabay.com/news/military/veterans/Number-of-homeless-veterans-in-Tampa-Bay-dropping-faster-than-nationwide_173166790 Number of homeless veterans in Tampa Bay dropping faster than nationwide]. ''Tampa Bay Times''. Retrieved November 1, 2018. | ||
*Morris, Kyle (November 10, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2018/11/10/exclusive-interview-ben-carson-touts-tremendous-progress-reducing-veteran-homelessness/ Exclusive Interview—Ben Carson Touts ‘Tremendous Progress’ Reducing Veteran Homelessness]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 10, 2018.</ref> | *Morris, Kyle (November 10, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2018/11/10/exclusive-interview-ben-carson-touts-tremendous-progress-reducing-veteran-homelessness/ Exclusive Interview—Ben Carson Touts ‘Tremendous Progress’ Reducing Veteran Homelessness]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 10, 2018.</ref> | ||
| + | *In 2018, U.S. veteran unemployment fell to 3.5%, the lowest level since 2001, and the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans fell to the lowest level on record.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *De Lea, Brittany (January 14, 2019). [https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/us-veteran-unemployment-rate-hits-all-time-low-in-2018 US veteran unemployment rate hits all-time low in 2018]. ''Fox Business''. Retrieved January 14, 2019. | ||
| + | *Gross, Natalie (January 11, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/employment/2019/01/11/vet-unemployment-hit-an-all-time-low-in-2018-mission-accomplished/ Vet unemployment hit an all-time low in 2018. Mission accomplished?] ''Military Times''. Retrieved January 14, 2019. | ||
| + | Statistics earlier in the year: | ||
| + | *Biery, Maria (November 2, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/veteran-unemployment-rate-hit-near-record-low-in-october Veteran unemployment rate hit near-record low in October]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved January 15, 2019. | ||
| + | *Gross, Natalie (November 2, 2019). [https://rebootcamp.militarytimes.com/news/employment/2018/11/02/veteran-unemployment-falls-across-the-board/ Veteran unemployment falls across the board]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved January 15, 2019. | ||
| + | President Trump's reaction: | ||
| + | *Samuels, Brett (January 15, 2019). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/425354-trump-touts-18-year-low-for-veteran-unemployment-rate Trump touts 18-year low for veteran unemployment rate]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved January 15, 2019. | ||
| + | *Bogorowski, Hanna (January 15, 2019). [https://dailycaller.com/2019/01/15/trump-veterans-unemployment-low/ Trump Touts Low Veteran Unemployment Numbers]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved January 15, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==2019== | ||
| + | [[File:Donald Trump veterans order, March 2019.jpg|thumb|250px|President Trump signs an executive order regarding veterans, March 5, 2019]] | ||
| + | The Trump Administration continued working to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Wilkie, Robert (May 24, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/veterans-affairs-is-changing-for-the-better Veterans Affairs is changing for the better]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved May 26, 2019. | ||
| + | *Blakeman, Brad; Makridis, Christos A. (November 11, 2019). [https://thehill.com/opinion/technology/469777-innovation-in-veteran-services Innovation in veteran services]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Principi, Anthony (November 11, 2019). [https://thehill.com/opinion/civil-rights/469825-veterans-affairs-reform-is-now-reality-under-president-trump Veterans Affairs reform is now reality under President Trump]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/11/11/donald-trump-has-fired-demoted-or-suspended-over-8000-veterans-affairs-employees-since-taking-office/ Donald Trump Has Fired, Demoted, or Suspended over 8,000 Veterans Affairs Employees Since Taking Office]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Phillips, Jack (November 11, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/donald-trump-relieved-more-8000-veterans-affairs-employees-since-he-took-office-secretary_3143055.html Donald Trump Relieved More Than 8,000 Veterans Affairs Employees Since He Took Office: Secretary]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved November 11, 2019.</ref> The VA increased its reliance on private healthcare and saw service improve as a result.<ref>Caldwell, Dan (June 19, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/op-eds/the-va-is-improving-because-its-using-more-private-healthcare The VA is improving because it's using more private healthcare]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 19, 2019.</ref> President Trump received significantly stronger support from veterans than from the overall U.S. population.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Harper, Jennifer (July 11, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/jul/11/military-vets-largely-supportive-of-donald-trump-s/ They've got his back: Military vets 'largely supportive' of Trump, says Pew Research Center report]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (July 10, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/07/10/strong-support-for-trump-among-veterans-in-new-national-poll/ Strong support for Trump among veterans in new national poll]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Burke, Cathy (July 10, 2019). [https://www.newsmax.com/us/pew-research-center-military-leadership-commander-in-chief/2019/07/10/id/923982/ Pew: Trump's Leadership Polls Higher With Vets Than Public]. ''Newsmax''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Igielnik, Ruth; Parker, Kim; Cilluffo, Anthony (July 11, 2019). [https://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2019/07/10/trump-draws-stronger-support-from-veterans-than-from-the-public-on-leadership-of-u-s-military/ Trump Draws Stronger Support From Veterans Than From the Public on Leadership of U.S. Military]. ''Pew Research Center''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | This data aligned with earlier polls: | ||
| + | *Maniam, Shiva (May 26, 2017). [https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/05/26/u-s-veterans-are-generally-supportive-of-trump/ U.S. veterans are generally supportive of Trump]. ''Pew Research Center''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Harper, Jennifer (November 5, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/nov/5/inside-the-beltway-vets-view-trump-as-the-master-c/ Big voting bloc: Military vets view Trump as the master commander]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved November 6, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Tennant, Michael (July 11, 2019). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/foreign-policy/item/32836-veterans-say-america-s-wars-aren-t-worth-it-poll-finds Veterans Say America’s Wars Aren’t Worth It, Poll Finds]. ''The New American''. Retrieved July 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Persons, Sally (November 7, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-campaign-to-launch-veterans-for-trump-coalition Trump campaign to launch ‘Veterans for Trump’ coalition]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved November 7, 2019.</ref> The economic boom in the U.S. also helped veterans.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Lane, Sylvan (September 24, 2019). [https://thehill.com/policy/finance/462671-lower-jobless-rate-improves-outlook-for-vets Lower jobless rate improves outlook for vets]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved September 24, 2019. | ||
| + | *Church, Nate (September 25, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/economy/2019/09/25/veterans-thriving-in-strong-post-recession-economy/ Veterans Thriving in Strong Post-Recession Economy]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 25, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (January 10, 2020). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/2020/01/10/veterans-end-2019-with-another-positive-job-report/ Veterans end 2019 with another positive job report]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved January 10, 2020.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Legislation signed, 2019=== | ||
| + | *June 25, 2019—President Trump signed a bill into law that fast-tracked benefits for Vietnam veterans likely exposed to Agent Orange.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (June 26, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/06/26/benefits-for-blue-water-veterans-finalized-after-years-long-fight/ Benefits for ‘blue water’ veterans finalized after years-long fight]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved June 27, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kime, Patricia (June 26, 2019). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/06/26/after-decades-fighting-blue-water-navy-benefits-bill-now-law.html After Decades of Fighting, the Blue Water Navy Benefits Bill Is Now a Law]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved June 27, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Kesling, Ben (June 26, 2019). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/new-agent-orange-law-benefiting-vietnam-era-veterans-could-leave-some-behind-11561577503 New Agent Orange Law Benefiting Vietnam-Era Veterans Could Leave Some Behind]. ''The Wall Street Journal''. Retrieved June 27, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *December 20, 2019—The spending bill signed by President Trump<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Stimson, Brie (December 21, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-signs-1-4-trillion-spending-bill-that-includes-space-force-avoids-shutdown Trump signs $1.4T spending bill that includes Space Force, avoids shutdown]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (December 20, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/dec/20/donald-trump-signs-massive-spending-bill-avoiding-/ Trump signs massive spending bill, avoiding a government shutdown]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Elis, Niv (December 20, 2019). [https://thehill.com/policy/finance/budget/475487-trump-signs-14-t-spending-package-averting-shutdown Trump signs $1.4 trillion spending package, averting shutdown]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *[https://www.voanews.com/usa/trump-signs-2020-spending-bills-worth-14-trillion Trump Signs 2020 Spending Bills Worth $1.4 Trillion]. ''Voice of America''. December 21, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Nathanson, Marc (December 20, 2019). [https://abcnews.go.com/US/trump-signs-14-trillion-spending-bill-avert-government/story?id=67865548 Trump signs $1.4 trillion spending bill to avert government shutdown]. ''ABC News''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Katz, Eric (December 20, 2019). [https://www.govexec.com/management/2019/12/president-trump-signs-spending-bills-averting-midnight-shutdown/162069/ Trump Signs 2020 Spending Bills, Averting Midnight Shutdown]. ''Government Executive''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Pramuk, Jacob (December 20, 2019). [https://www.cnbc.com/2019/12/21/trump-signs-bills-to-avoid-shutdown-scrap-obamacare-taxes-and-raise-tobacco-buying-age.html Trump signs bills to avoid shutdown, scrap Obamacare taxes and raise tobacco buying age]. ''CNBC''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Knutson, Jacob (December 20, 2019). [https://www.axios.com/trump-137-trillion-spending-deal-federal-shutdown-102be300-5bf2-4d4c-9ae3-5ac9651bbf22.html Trump signs $1.37 trillion spending deal, averting federal shutdown]. ''Axios''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *[https://apnews.com/3e0d8749170b0ca2fa1b93642bf03c8f Trump signs $1.4 trillion in spending, avoids shutdown]. ''Associated Press''. December 20, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019.</ref> advanced the Veterans Choice program supported by Trump.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Yen, Hope (December 18, 2019). [https://apnews.com/a7d6fa356c89f17d380adad338c1eb70 Budget deal advances VA private care program backed by Trump]. ''Associated Press''. Retrieved December 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Yen, Hope (December 18, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/dec/18/budget-deal-advances-va-private-care-program-backe/]. ''The Washington Times'' (from the ''Associated Press''). Retrieved December 29, 2019.</ref> The bill also repealed the "widow's tax" which affected the spouses of slain service members.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Tiron, Roxana (December 6, 2019). [https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-12-07/military-spouses-gov-t-workers-see-wins-in-738b-defense-bill Military Spouses, Workers See Wins in $738 Billion Defense Bill]. ''Bloomberg''. Retrieved January 4, 2020. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (December 19, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/12/19/gold-star-families-hit-by-surprise-tax-bills-get-relief-in-budget-deal/ Gold Star families, hit by surprise tax bills, get relief in budget deal]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved January 4, 2020. | ||
| + | *Beck, Caroline (December 29, 2019). [https://www.timesdaily.com/news/military-widow-s-tax-repealed-with-passage-of-defense-bill/article_d34224f2-9d25-5b8f-904a-48eeda502ae6.html Military widow’s tax repealed with passage of defense bill]. ''TimesDaily'' (from ''Alabama Daily News''). Retrieved January 4, 2020. | ||
| + | *Jurkowski, Tom (January 4, 2020). [https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/476420-a-40-year-wrong-corrected-bipartisanship-can-work A 40-year wrong corrected: Bipartisanship can work]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved January 4, 2020. | ||
| + | *Bell, Diane (December 11, 2019). [https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/columnists/story/2019-12-11/column-military-widows-are-celebrating-a-huge-victory-in-congress Column: Military widows are celebrating a huge victory in Congress]. ''The San Diego Union-Tribune''. Retrieved January 4, 2020.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Executive actions, 2019=== | ||
| + | *January 31, 2019—The VA announced new rules expanding private healthcare services for veterans, allowing them to see a private doctor if they live over 30 minutes away from a VA clinic or have to wait over 20 days for service.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Kesling, Ben (January 30, 2019). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/va-will-issue-new-rules-expanding-access-to-private-care-11548866605 VA Issues New Rules Expanding Access to Private Care]. ''The Wall Street Journal''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Slack, Donovan (January 30, 2019). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2019/01/30/veterans-get-more-choices-private-health-care-va-rules/2720456002/ VA unveils proposed rules extending more private care to veterans]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kheel, Rebecca (January 30, 2019). [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/427704-va-unveils-proposal-for-expanded-private-healthcare-for-veterans VA unveils proposal to expand private health care for veterans]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Wentling, Nikki (January 30, 2019). [https://www.stripes.com/va-unveils-proposed-new-rules-for-expanding-private-sector-care-1.566623 VA unveils proposed new rules for expanding private-sector care]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (January 30, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/01/30/new-va-plan-vets-facing-30-minute-drives-20-day-waits-for-appointments-could-get-private-sector-care-instead/ New VA plan: Vets facing 30-minute drives, 20-day waits for appointments could get private-sector care instead]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kime, Patricia (January 30, 2019). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/01/30/proposed-va-rules-would-expand-veterans-access-private-health-care.html Proposed VA Rules Would Expand Veterans' Access to Private Health Care]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved January 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Steinhauer, Jennifer (January 30, 2019). [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/30/us/politics/veterans-health-care.html Veterans Will Have More Access to Private Health Care Under New V.A. Rules]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved January 31, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *February 26, 2019—VA Secretary [[Robert Wilkie]] announced his department would prioritize [[Purple Heart]] recipients for veterans' benefits claims.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Brook, Tom Vanden (February 26, 2019). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2019/02/26/veterans-purple-heart-medals-receive-top-priority-va-claims-disability/2992536002/ Purple Heart recipients will get top priority for their claims, VA announces]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved March 1, 2019. | ||
| + | *Wentling, Nikki (February 26, 2019). [https://www.stripes.com/va-announces-new-policy-to-prioritize-purple-heart-recipients-for-va-claims-1.570513 VA announces new policy to prioritize Purple Heart recipients for VA claims]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved March 1, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kime, Patricia (February 26, 2019). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/02/26/purple-heart-recipients-will-move-front-line-va-claims-wilkie-says.html Purple Heart Recipients Will Move to Front of Line for VA Claims, Wilkie Says]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved March 1, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (February 26, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/02/26/purple-heart-vets-will-get-disability-claims-moved-quicker/ Purple Heart vets will get disability claims moved quicker]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved March 1, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Riley-Topping, Rory E. (March 1, 2019). [https://thehill.com/opinion/white-house/432192-prioritizing-purple-heart-recipients-is-the-right-move-for-va Prioritizing Purple Heart recipients is the right move for VA]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved March 1, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *March 4, 2019—President Trump signed an executive order to help veterans and active-duty servicemembers easily join the U.S. Merchant Marine.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Howell, Tom (March 4, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/mar/4/donald-trump-orders-eases-transition-veterans-acti/ Trump order eases transition for veterans, active-duty military to Merchant Marine]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Wentling, Nikki (March 4, 2019). [https://www.stripes.com/trump-executive-order-eases-veteran-transition-into-merchant-marine-1.571328 Trump executive order eases veteran transition into Merchant Marine]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Xiao, Bowen (March 4, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/trump-to-sign-executive-order-on-transition-of-troops-into-merchant-marines_2823834.html Trump Signs Executive Order on Transition of Troops Into Merchant Marines]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kime, Patricia (March 4, 2019). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/03/04/executive-order-aims-attract-transitioning-troops-merchant-marine.html Executive Order Aims to Attract Transitioning Troops to the Merchant Marine]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Adamczyk, Ed (March 4, 2019). [https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2019/03/04/Trump-eases-restrictions-to-help-military-members-join-Merchant-Marine/8111551722857/ Trump eases restrictions to help military members join Merchant Marine]. ''UPI''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Schultz, Marisa (March 4, 2019). [https://nypost.com/2019/03/04/trump-to-loosen-restrictions-for-vets-to-join-us-merchant-marine/ Trump to loosen restrictions for vets to join US Merchant Marine]. ''New York Post''. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *[https://www.apnews.com/706883b7c6574a898ec75242053942e0 Trump eases restrictions for vets to be Merchant Mariners]. ''Associated Press''. March 4, 2019. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Navarro, Peter (March 4, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/peter-navarro-president-trump-takes-bold-step-to-transition-veterans-into-us-merchant-marine Peter Navarro: President Trump takes bold step to transition veterans into US Merchant Marine]. ''Fox News''. March 3, 2019. Retrieved March 4, 2019. | ||
| + | *Faram, Mark D. (March 4, 2019). [https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2019/03/04/why-trump-is-trying-to-help-sailors-become-merchant-mariners/ Why Trump is trying to help sailors become merchant mariners]. ''Navy Times''. Retrieved March 4, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *March 5, 2019—President Trump signed an order creating a task force to combat and reduce veteran suicides.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Hopkins, Anna (March 5, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-signs-executive-order-aimed-at-lowering-veteran-suicide-rate https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-signs-executive-order-aimed-at-lowering-veteran-suicide-rate]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (March 5, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/03/05/donald-trump-plans-cabinet-level-task-force-study-veterans-suicides/ Donald Trump Plans Cabinet-Level Task Force to Study Veterans Suicides]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Jativa, Daniel (March 5, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/trump-signs-executive-order-aimed-at-helping-veterans-at-risk-of-suicide Trump signs executive order aimed at helping veterans at risk of suicide]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (March 5, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/mar/5/donald-trumps-executive-order-create-high-level-ta/ Trump signs executive order to stop 'crisis' of veterans' suicide]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kesling, Ben (March 5, 2019). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/trump-to-order-creation-of-task-force-addressing-veteran-suicide-11551800266 Trump Orders Creation of Task Force Addressing Veteran Suicide]. ''The Wall Street Journal''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Wentling, Ben (March 5, 2019). [https://www.stripes.com/trump-creates-task-force-to-combat-veteran-suicide-1.571510 Trump creates task force to combat veteran suicide]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Fordham, Evie (March 5, 2019). [https://dailycaller.com/2019/03/05/trump-executive-order-veterans/ Trump Signs Executive Order to Combat 'One of Our Nation's Most Heartbreaking Tragedies']. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Slack, Donovan (March 5, 2019). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2019/03/05/trump-order-enhances-efforts-prevent-veteran-suicides/3065098002/ Trump ramps up effort to prevent veteran suicides with executive order creating task force]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (March 5, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/03/05/the-new-plan-to-prevent-veteran-suicides-new-grants-better-research-more-community-focus/ The new plan to prevent veteran suicides: new grants, better research, more community focus]. ''Military Times''. Retrieved March 5, 2019. | ||
| + | *Cuthbertson, Charlotte (March 5, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/trump-sets-up-task-force-to-prevent-veteran-suicides_2825823.html Trump Sets Up Task Force to Prevent Veteran Suicides]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved March 6, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *July 3, 2019—The Department of Veterans Affairs strengthened religious liberty protections in its hospitals, allowing Bibles on its premises again.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Lucas, Fred (August 27, 2019). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/trump-admin-allows-veterans-hospitals-to-have-bibles-christmas-trees-again Trump admin allows veterans’ hospitals to have Bibles, Christmas trees again]. ''LifeSiteNews'' (from ''The Daily Signal''). Retrieved August 28, 2019. | ||
| + | *Lucas, Fred (August 26, 2019). [https://www.dailysignal.com/2019/08/26/va-lifts-ban-on-bibles-in-move-to-support-religious-freedom VA Lifts Ban on Bibles in Move to Support Religious Freedom]. ''The Daily Signal''. Retrieved August 28, 2019. | ||
| + | *Vondracek, Christopher (August 27, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/aug/27/robert-wilkie-va-secretary-rejects-obama-religious/ VA secretary rejects Obama religious expression rules: 'They did not know the makeup of the force']. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 27, 2019. | ||
| + | *Vondracek, Christopher (August 28, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/aug/28/mike-pence-defends-bible-va-hospital-new-hampshre/ 'The Bible stays': Mike Pence blasts 'politically correct' efforts undertaken by Obama]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 28, 2019. | ||
| + | *[https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2019/july/va-hospital-veterans-affairs-bible-display-religious-libert.html VA Hospitals Can Distribute, Display Bibles Under Revised Policy]. ''Christianity Today'' (from ''Religion News Service''). July 9, 2019. Retrieved August 28, 2019. | ||
| + | *Furr, Amy (August 29, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/faith/2019/08/29/pence-declares-va-hospitals-will-not-be-religion-free-zones/ Mike Pence Declares VA Hospitals Will Not Be ‘Religion-Free Zones’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Parke, Caleb (August 29, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/pence-bible-va-trump-obama Pence defends Bible at VA hospital, derides 'politically correct' Obama]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved August 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Cimmino, Jeffrey (August 29, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/pence-defends-bible-at-va-hospitals-vows-they-will-not-be-religion-free-zones Pence defends Bible at VA hospitals, vows they 'will not be religion-free zones']. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved August 29, 2019. | ||
| + | *Starnes, Todd (August 30, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/todd-starnes-trump-administration-stops-bullies-from-banning-va-hospital-bibles Todd Starnes: Trump administration stops bullies from banning VA hospital Bibles]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved August 30, 2019. | ||
| + | *Haq, Masooma (August 30, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/vice-president-pence-standing-for-religious-freedom-more-important-than-political-correctness_3063217.html Vice President Pence: Standing for Religious Freedom More Important than Political Correctness]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved August 30, 2019. | ||
| + | *Russell, Nicole (August 31, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/pence-joins-the-fight-for-religious-freedom-and-bible-displays-in-va-hospitals Pence joins the fight for religious freedom and Bible displays in VA hospitals]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved August 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Bohon, Dave (August 31, 2019). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/culture/item/33287-vice-president-vows-bible-stays-at-embattled-va-facility Vice President Vows “Bible Stays” at Embattled VA Facility]. ''The New American''. Retrieved August 31, 2019. | ||
| + | *Freiburger, Calvin (September 3, 2019). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pence-defends-bible-at-veterans-hospital-declares-va-not-religion-free-zone Pence defends Bible at veterans hospital, declares VA not ‘religion-free zone’]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved September 3, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | *August 21, 2019—President Trump signed a memorandum canceling student loan debt for disabled veterans.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (August 21, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/08/21/donald-trump-cancels-federal-student-debt-for-wounded-warriors/ Donald Trump Cancels Federal Student Debt for Wounded Warriors]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *O'Reilly, Andrew (August 21, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-signs-executive-order-cancelling-student-loan-debt-for-disabled-veterans Trump signs executive order canceling student loan debt for disabled veterans]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved September 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (August 21, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/aug/21/trump-signing-order-wipe-out-student-loan-debt-dis/ Trump signs order to wipe out student loan debt for disabled veterans]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Xiao, Bowen (August 21, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/trump-signs-memorandum-eliminating-student-loan-debt-for-disabled-vets_3050822.html Trump Signs Memorandum to Expedite Student Loan Debt Elimination for Disabled Vets]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Pearce, Tim (August 21, 2019). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/trump-cancels-student-loan-debt-held-by-disabled-veterans Trump cancels student loan debt held by disabled veterans]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Samuels, Brett (August 21, 2019). [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/458295-trump-orders-elimination-of-student-loan-debt-for-thousands-of-disabled Trump orders elimination of student loan debt for thousands of disabled veterans]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Superville, Darlene (August 21, 2019). [https://www.apnews.com/cdda0a1c21124c4c8a2d68790d99bdab Trump signs student debt forgiveness for disabled veterans]. ''Associated Press''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kenning, Chris (August 21, 2019). [https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/politics/2019/08/21/trump-speaks-veterans-gathering-louisville/2055527001/ Trump signs order automatically forgiving student loan debt for disabled veterans]. ''Louisville Courier-Journal''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Wentling, Nikki (August 21, 2019). [https://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/trump-directs-agencies-to-create-faster-debt-forgiveness-process-for-disabled-vets-1.595190 Trump directs agencies to create faster debt forgiveness process for disabled vets]. ''Stars and Stripes''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Ross, Chuck (August 21, 2019). [https://dailycaller.com/2019/08/21/trump-executive-order-student-debt-veterans/ Trump Signs Executive Order To Wipe Out ‘Every Penny’ Of Student Debt For Severely Disabled Vets]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Kime, Patricia (August 21, 2019). [https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/08/21/trump-signs-directive-expediting-student-debt-forgiveness-some-veterans.html Trump Signs Directive Expediting Student Debt Forgiveness for Some Veterans]. ''Military.com''. Retrieved August 21, 2019. | ||
| + | *Shane, Leo (August 21, 2019). [https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/08/21/trump-orders-easier-process-to-forgive-disabled-vets-student-loans/ Trump orders easier process to forgive disabled vets’ student loans]. ''Miltiary Times''. Retrieved August 21, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Other achievements, 2019=== | ||
| + | While the following achievements were not official United States government policy actions by the Trump Administration, they were closely related to the Trump Administration and its policies: | ||
| + | |||
| + | *November 11, 2019—President Trump became the first president to attend the New York City Veterans Day Parade, attending and speaking on its 100th anniversary.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/11/11/donald-trump-praises-the-american-warrior-at-veterans-day-parade-in-new-york-city/ Donald Trump Praises the American Warrior at Veterans Day Parade in New York City]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Blitzer, Ronn (November 11, 2019). [https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-honors-veterans-at-new-york-ceremony-the-glory-of-your-deeds-will-only-grow-greater-with-time Trump honors veterans at New York ceremony: 'The glory of your deeds will only grow greater with time']. ''Fox News''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Phillips, Jack (November 11, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/truly-an-honor-trump-becomes-first-sitting-president-to-attend-nyc-veterans-day-parade_3143097.html ‘Truly an Honor’: Trump Becomes First Sitting President to Attend NYC Veterans Day Parade]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Xiao, Bowen (November 11, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/trump-honors-veterans-at-iconic-new-york-parade_3142982.html Trump Honors Veterans at Iconic New York Parade]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Boyer, Dave (November 11, 2019). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/nov/11/donald-trump-marks-100th-annual-veterans-day-parad/ Trump marks 100th annual Veterans Day parade in New York]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *[https://apnews.com/474b94b44c724e4a9154369eaabe53ba Trump kicks off Veterans Day tribute in NYC]. ''Associated Press''. November 11, 2019. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | Earlier articles: | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (November 10, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/11/10/donald-trump-kicking-off-100th-annual-veterans-parade-in-new-york-city/ Donald Trump Kicking Off 100th Annual Veterans Parade in New York City]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | *Van Brugen, Isabel (November 7, 2019). [https://www.theepochtimes.com/president-trump-to-make-history-as-first-president-to-attend-nyc-veterans-day-parade_3139860.html Trump to Make History as First President to Attend NYC Veterans Day Parade]. ''The Epoch Times''. Retrieved November 11, 2019. | ||
| + | See also: | ||
| + | *Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). [https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2019/11/11/on-veterans-day-mike-pence-reaches-out-to-struggling-veterans/ On Veterans Day, Mike Pence Reaches Out to Struggling Veterans]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 11, 2019.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==2020== | ||
| + | By early 2020, the Department of Veterans Affairs had improved its services compared to when President Trump first assumed office.<ref>Vernon, Andrew (January 4, 2020). [https://thehill.com/opinion/white-house/476782-veterans-affairs-improvements-have-made-a-positive-impact Veterans Affairs improvements have made a positive impact]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved January 4, 2020.</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Legislation signed, 2020=== | ||
| + | *February 11, 2020—President Trump signed into law S.153, a bill sponsored by [[Marco Rubio]] that would expand veteran eligibilities for [[STEM]] careers.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/153/all-info All Information (Except Text) for S.153 - Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act] | ||
| + | *[https://fox6now.com/2020/02/11/president-trump-signs-bill-into-law-supporting-veterans-in-stem-careers/ President Trump signs bill into law supporting veterans in STEM careers] | ||
| + | *[https://www.wric.com/news/politics/president-trump-signs-jobs-bill-in-support-of-veterans/ President Trump signs jobs bill in support of veterans] | ||
| + | *[https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2020/02/11/Trump-signs-bill-promoting-STEM-careers-for-veterans/3341581468048/ Trump signs bill promoting STEM careers for veterans] | ||
| + | *[https://www.clarksvilleonline.com/2020/02/12/president-donald-trump-puts-veterans-first/ President Donald Trump puts Veterans First]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *March 21, 2020—President Trump signed S.3503 into law, a bill that authorized the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improvise education programs.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/bill-announcement-89/ Bill Announcement - March 21, 2020 | The White House] | ||
| + | *[https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/116/s3503 S. 3503: A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to treat certain programs of education converted to distance learning by reason of emergencies and health-related situations in the same manner as programs of education pursued at educational institutions, and for other purposes. - GovTrack] | ||
| + | *[https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/3503?s=1&r=1 S.3503 - A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to treat certain programs of education converted to distance learning by reason of emergencies and health-related situations in the same manner as programs of education pursued at educational institutions, and for other purposes. | Congress.gov]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *April 10, 2020—President Trump signed a series of bills into law, including the following:<ref>[https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/bill-announcement-92/ Bill Announcement - April 10, 2020 | The White house]</ref> | ||
| + | **H.R. 1365, which simplifies payments that are given to survivors and victims of the occupation and attack of [[Guam]] by Imperial Japanese forces.<ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/116/hr1365 H.R. 1365: To make technical corrections to the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act. - GovTrack] | ||
| + | *[https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1365 H.R.1365 - To make technical corrections to the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act. | Congress.gov]</ref> | ||
| + | **S.760, a bill sponsored by Sen. [[Gary Peters]] (D–MI) which improvises veteran apprenticeship programs.<ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/116/s760/summary S. 760: Support for Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act of 2019 - GovTrack] | ||
| + | *[https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/760 S.760 - Support for Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act of 2019 | Congress.gov]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *August 8, 2020—President Trump signed several bills into law, including:<ref>[https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/bill-announcement-080820/ Bill Announcement - August 8, 2020 | The White House]</ref> | ||
| + | **H.R. 886, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Rep. [[Charlie Crist]] (D–FL) and introduced in the Senate by [[Martha McSally]] (R–AZ) that would expand treatment courts for veterans nationwide.<ref name="Here Are the 2 Veteran-Supporting Bills President Trump Just Signed into Law">[https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/08/10/here-are-2-veteran-supporting-bills-president-trump-just-signed-law.html Here Are the 2 Veteran-Supporting Bills President Trump Just Signed into Law]</ref><ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://prescottenews.com/index.php/2020/08/09/president-signs-mcsallys-veteran-treatment-court-bill-into-law/ President Signs McSally’s Veteran Treatment Court Bill Into Law] | ||
| + | *[https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/national/military-news/president-trump-signs-veteran-treatment-court-coordination-act-into-law/67-67253e3c-76cc-42f3-a8c5-15a7282b813f President Trump signs Veteran Treatment Court Coordination Act into law]</ref> | ||
| + | **H.R. 3504, a bill that would expand a federal grant program for disabled veterans and increase the maximum benefits for adaptive housing projects.<ref name="Here Are the 2 Veteran-Supporting Bills President Trump Just Signed into Law"/><ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/trump-signs-bill-to-expand-funding-eligibility-for-housing-grants-for-disabled-veterans-1.640781 Trump signs bill to expand funding, eligibility for housing grants for disabled veterans] | ||
| + | *[https://americanmilitarynews.com/2020/08/trump-signs-bill-expanding-disabled-vets-housing-program/ Trump signs bill expanding disabled vets’ housing program]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Other achievements, 2020=== | ||
| + | *February 19, 2020—President Trump held a rally in [[Arizona]] at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum,<ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2020/02/16/president-donald-trump-hold-campaign-rally-phoenix-veterans-memorial-coliseum/4741663002/ Trump is coming to Phoenix. What you need to know about Veterans Memorial Coliseum] | ||
| + | *[https://ktar.com/story/2987191/trump-arrives-in-phoenix-for-rally-at-veterans-memorial-coliseum/ Trump arrives in Phoenix for rally at Veterans Memorial Coliseum]</ref> where he honored visiting 100 year-old [[World War II]] veteran Ervin Julian, giving the latter a signed hat and provoking a thunderous chant of "USA!"<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://ijr.com/trump-shout-out-world-war-ii-veteran-hotter-than-trump/ Trump Gives Shout out to World War II Veteran Who Attended His Arizona Rally] | ||
| + | *[https://www.foxnews.com/us/wwii-veteran-phoenix-trump-rally-usa-cheers WWII veteran carried to his seat at Phoenix Trump rally to 'USA' cheers, video shows] | ||
| + | *[https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2020/02/20/trump-rally-phoenix-two-carry-man-said-wwii-veteran-seat/4813284002/ Trump praises 100-year-old World War II veteran carried to seat at his Phoenix rally] | ||
| + | *[https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/watch-trump-supporters-at-rally-carry-wwii-veteran-to-his-seat-amid-chants-of-usa-usa-usa WATCH: Trump supporters at rally carry WWII veteran to his seat amid chants of 'USA! USA! USA!'] | ||
| + | *[https://www.fox19.com/2020/02/20/wwii-veteran-carried-seat-trump-rally-phoenix/ WWII veteran carried to seat at Trump rally in Phoenix] | ||
| + | *[https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/it-was-incredible-100-year-old-wwii-veteran-son-speak-about-viral-moment-at-trump-rally/ar-BB10dFoA 'It was incredible': 100-year-old WWII veteran, son speak about viral moment at Trump rally]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *March 10, 2020—[[Donald Trump]] awarded the [[Presidential Medal of Freedom]] to [[Jack Keane]], a retired Army general with nearly four decades of military service ever since the [[Vietnam War]].<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2020/03/10/president-trump-awards-gen-jack-keane-presidential-medal-of-freedom/ President Trump Awards Gen. Jack Keane Presidential Medal of Freedom] | ||
| + | *[https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/486900-trump-awards-medal-of-freedom-to-retired-gen-jack-keane Trump awards Medal of Freedom to retired Gen. Jack Keane] | ||
| + | *[https://nypost.com/2020/03/10/trump-awards-army-gen-jack-keane-the-medal-of-freedom/ Trump awards Army Gen. Jack Keane the Medal of Freedom]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *April 8, 2020—President Trump issued a proclamation honoring American [[POW]]s, declaring the day National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-national-former-prisoner-war-recognition-day-2020/ Proclamation on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2020] | ||
| + | *[https://www.dailywire.com/news/meghan-mccain-hammers-trump-over-his-pow-recognition-day-comments Meghan McCain Hammers Trump Over His POW Recognition Day Comments] | ||
| + | *[https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/trump-declares-day-of-recognition-for-pows Trump declares day of recognition for POWs]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *July 24, 2020—President Trump signed a proclamation commemorating the end of the [[Korean War]] and honoring the American troops who fought there.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-national-korean-war-veterans-armistice-day-2020/ Proclamation on National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, 2020] | ||
| + | *[https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2288357/trump-signs-proclamation-commemorating-end-of-korean-war/ Trump Signs Proclamation Commemorating End of Korean War] | ||
| + | *[https://americanmilitarynews.com/2020/07/the-korean-war-armistice-was-signed-67-years-ago/ https://americanmilitarynews.com/2020/07/the-korean-war-armistice-was-signed-67-years-ago/] | ||
| + | *[http://www.militaryspot.com/news/trump-signs-proclamation-commemorating-end-korean-war Trump Signs Proclamation Commemorating End of Korean War]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *August 7, 2020—President Trump issued a commemoration to recipients of the [[Purple Heart]] on the 2020 National Purple Heart Day.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/presidential-message-national-purple-heart-day-2020/ Presidential Message on National Purple Heart Day, 2020] | ||
| + | *[https://www.oann.com/president-trump-pays-tribute-to-purple-heart-recipients/ President Trump pays tribute to Purple Heart recipients] | ||
| + | *[https://americanmilitarynews.com/2020/08/purple-heart-day-is-today-heres-how-trump-the-dod-and-others-recognized-it/ Purple Heart Day is today – Here’s how Trump, the DoD and others recognized it]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | *September 2, 2020—Donald Trump traveled to Wilmington, North Carolina to commemorate the end of [[World War II]], honoring the veterans there.<ref>Multiple references: | ||
| + | *[https://news.yahoo.com/trump-travels-politically-key-north-154327709.html Trump travels to politically key North Carolina to commemorate end of World War Two] | ||
| + | *[https://abc11.com/donald-trump-wilmington-wwii-world-war-ii/6401457/ President Donald Trump honors WWII veterans today in Wilmington, NC] | ||
| + | *[https://www.fox6now.com/news/trump-honors-wwii-veterans-formally-recognizes-wilmington-nc-as-heritage-city Trump honors WWII veterans, formally recognizes Wilmington, NC as 'Heritage City'] | ||
| + | *[https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/09/love-president-trump-trump-arrives-wilmington-north-carolina-honor-world-war-ii-vets-video/ “We Love You, President Trump!” – Trump Arrives in Wilmington, North Carolina to Honor World War II Vets (VIDEO)]</ref> | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Setbacks, 2020=== | ||
| + | *February 8, 2020—Despite President Trump's push for [[VA]] accountability, there was a [[whistleblower]] allegation against the bureau, accusing it of seeking damaging information on a woman who made an allegation of sexual assault.<ref>[https://thehill.com/policy/defense/482188-whistleblower-claims-leaders-of-va-sought-damaging-information-on-woman Whistleblower claims leaders of VA sought damaging information on woman alleging sexual assault]</ref> | ||
| + | *March 5, 2020—The VA's Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection was accused of intimidating whistleblowers.<ref>Two references: | ||
| + | *[https://www.govexec.com/management/2020/03/vas-whistleblower-protection-office-again-faces-allegations-retaliation-intimidation/163538/ VA's Whistleblower Protection Office Again Faces Allegations of Retaliation, Intimidation] | ||
| + | *[https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/03/06/va-whistleblower-protection-office-retaliated-against-its-own-whistleblowers-report-claims.html VA Whistleblower Protection Office Retaliated Against Its Own Whistleblowers, Report Claims]</ref> | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Latest revision as of 20:25, September 2, 2020
- Main article: Donald Trump achievements
This article is a non-exhaustive list of achievements by U.S. President Donald Trump, his administration, and Congress related to veterans issues.
2017
Secretary of Veterans Affairs David Shulkin stated on June 7, 2017, that improving the Department of Veterans Affairs was a "top priority" for the Trump Administration.[1][2] Shulkin, a holdover from the Obama Administration, admitted that the Trump Administration was "quicker" and "more decisive" than the previous one,[3] and he moved to modernize the department during his tenure.[4] The Trump Administration worked aggressively and effectively to improve the VA, and Shulkin received bipartian support.[5]
Legislation signed, 2017
- April 19, 2017—President Trump signed an extension of the Veterans Choice Act of 2014, which allowed veterans to seek medical care outside the VA system due to serious VA problems.[6][7]
- June 2, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law giving preference in federal grants to "federal and state law enforcement agencies that hire and train veterans".[8]
- June 23, 2017—President Trump signed the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act into law (Trump described the law as "one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history"[9]), which expanded protections for VA whistleblowers, gave the VA the authority to end bonuses to convicted employees, made quicker and easier the process for firing, suspending, and demoting employees.[10]
- August 12, 2017—President Trump signed a bill which, in addition to extending the department's Choice Program for an additional six months, authorized $1.8 billion so the VA could lease and open 28 medical facilities and so it could implement a new hiring program.[11]
- August 16, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law expanding GI benefits for veterans, including removing a 15-year time limit on using GI benefits and giving veterans additional payments for science, engineering, and technology courses at universities, among other provisions.[12]
- August 23, 2017—President Trump signed a bill into law streamlining and making more convenient the process for veterans to appeal disability benefit claims.[13]
Executive actions, 2017
- April 27, 2017—President Trump signed an executive order creating an office in the Department of Veterans Affairs to investigate obstacles preventing the VA from firing incompetent employees, and to protect those who reveal cases of incompetence in the department.[14]
- June 5, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs announced it would adopt the same medical records system as the Defense Department in order to bring better care for veterans.[15][16]
- July 7, 2017—The Department of Veterans Affairs made public its disciplinary actions against its employees,[17] and it reported that day having fired over 500 employees since January 2017 and suspending nearly 200.[18]
- August 3, 2017—The Trump Administration added several new services to the VA's telehealth program, making it easier for veterans to obtain health care services such as through letting them conduct medical examinations remotely and giving them the ability to schedule appointments electronically.[19]
Other achievements, 2017
While the following achievements were not official United States government policy actions by the Trump Administration, they were closely related to the Trump Administration and its policies:
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate of U.S. military veterans in October 2017 had fallen to a record low of 2.7%, mirroring the decreasing unemployment rate under President Trump.[20]
2018
In 2018, President Trump and his administration continued working to help veterans.[21]
Legislation signed, 2018
- June 6, 2018—President Trump signed the VA Mission Act into law, a major reform of the department which expanded veterans' access to private healthcare, created new healthcare programs, and reorganized existing programs for efficiency.[22]
Executive actions, 2018
- January 9, 2018—President Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to expand mental health services for veterans in order to reduce the number of veteran suicides.[23]
- September 2018—The VA announced it had exceeded its goal of delivering 81,000 appeals decisions in Fiscal Year 2018 – a 52% increase from Fiscal Year 2017 – on claims for disability benefits two weeks earlier than expected.[24]
- September 18, 2018—The VA announced that five of its hospitals were removed from its list of high-risk facilities because of improving conditions.[25]
- November 8, 2018—The VA announced it would end the practice of "official time" for its medical employees, where they get paid for working for their unions rather than for what they were hired to do.[26]
Other achievements, 2018
While the following achievements were not official United States government policy actions by the Trump Administration, they were closely related to the Trump Administration and its policies:
- The Trump Administration continued working to reduce the number of homeless veterans, and the number fell over 5% between 2017 and 2018 and stood at half the level in 2009, with female veteran homelessness falling 10% between 2017 and 2018.[27]
- In 2018, U.S. veteran unemployment fell to 3.5%, the lowest level since 2001, and the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans fell to the lowest level on record.[28]
2019
The Trump Administration continued working to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs.[29] The VA increased its reliance on private healthcare and saw service improve as a result.[30] President Trump received significantly stronger support from veterans than from the overall U.S. population.[31] The economic boom in the U.S. also helped veterans.[32]
Legislation signed, 2019
- June 25, 2019—President Trump signed a bill into law that fast-tracked benefits for Vietnam veterans likely exposed to Agent Orange.[33]
- December 20, 2019—The spending bill signed by President Trump[34] advanced the Veterans Choice program supported by Trump.[35] The bill also repealed the "widow's tax" which affected the spouses of slain service members.[36]
Executive actions, 2019
- January 31, 2019—The VA announced new rules expanding private healthcare services for veterans, allowing them to see a private doctor if they live over 30 minutes away from a VA clinic or have to wait over 20 days for service.[37]
- February 26, 2019—VA Secretary Robert Wilkie announced his department would prioritize Purple Heart recipients for veterans' benefits claims.[38]
- March 4, 2019—President Trump signed an executive order to help veterans and active-duty servicemembers easily join the U.S. Merchant Marine.[39]
- March 5, 2019—President Trump signed an order creating a task force to combat and reduce veteran suicides.[40]
- July 3, 2019—The Department of Veterans Affairs strengthened religious liberty protections in its hospitals, allowing Bibles on its premises again.[41]
- August 21, 2019—President Trump signed a memorandum canceling student loan debt for disabled veterans.[42]
Other achievements, 2019
While the following achievements were not official United States government policy actions by the Trump Administration, they were closely related to the Trump Administration and its policies:
- November 11, 2019—President Trump became the first president to attend the New York City Veterans Day Parade, attending and speaking on its 100th anniversary.[43]
2020
By early 2020, the Department of Veterans Affairs had improved its services compared to when President Trump first assumed office.[44]
Legislation signed, 2020
- February 11, 2020—President Trump signed into law S.153, a bill sponsored by Marco Rubio that would expand veteran eligibilities for STEM careers.[45]
- March 21, 2020—President Trump signed S.3503 into law, a bill that authorized the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improvise education programs.[46]
- April 10, 2020—President Trump signed a series of bills into law, including the following:[47]
- H.R. 1365, which simplifies payments that are given to survivors and victims of the occupation and attack of Guam by Imperial Japanese forces.[48]
- S.760, a bill sponsored by Sen. Gary Peters (D–MI) which improvises veteran apprenticeship programs.[49]
- August 8, 2020—President Trump signed several bills into law, including:[50]
- H.R. 886, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Rep. Charlie Crist (D–FL) and introduced in the Senate by Martha McSally (R–AZ) that would expand treatment courts for veterans nationwide.[51][52]
- H.R. 3504, a bill that would expand a federal grant program for disabled veterans and increase the maximum benefits for adaptive housing projects.[51][53]
Other achievements, 2020
- February 19, 2020—President Trump held a rally in Arizona at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum,[54] where he honored visiting 100 year-old World War II veteran Ervin Julian, giving the latter a signed hat and provoking a thunderous chant of "USA!"[55]
- March 10, 2020—Donald Trump awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Jack Keane, a retired Army general with nearly four decades of military service ever since the Vietnam War.[56]
- April 8, 2020—President Trump issued a proclamation honoring American POWs, declaring the day National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.[57]
- July 24, 2020—President Trump signed a proclamation commemorating the end of the Korean War and honoring the American troops who fought there.[58]
- August 7, 2020—President Trump issued a commemoration to recipients of the Purple Heart on the 2020 National Purple Heart Day.[59]
- September 2, 2020—Donald Trump traveled to Wilmington, North Carolina to commemorate the end of World War II, honoring the veterans there.[60]
Setbacks, 2020
- February 8, 2020—Despite President Trump's push for VA accountability, there was a whistleblower allegation against the bureau, accusing it of seeking damaging information on a woman who made an allegation of sexual assault.[61]
- March 5, 2020—The VA's Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection was accused of intimidating whistleblowers.[62]
References
- ↑ Persons, Sally (June 7, 2017). Shulkin says veterans health care reform a ‘top priority’. The Washington Times. Retrieved June 7, 2017.
- ↑ Hayward, John (June 22, 2017). VA Secretary David Shulkin: ‘We Have 20 Veterans a Day Taking Their Lives; That’s Totally Unacceptable’. Breitbart News. Retrieved June 22, 2017.
- ↑ Bedard, Paul (June 26, 2017). Obama holdover: Trump style 'quicker, more decisive'. Washington Examiner. Retrieved June 27, 2017.
- ↑ Hayward, John (August 1, 2017). Secretary Shulkin on V.A. Modernization: Wait Times Posted Online, Same-Day Service for Emergencies. Breitbart News. Retrieved August 1, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Allen, Arthur (August 28, 2017). Trump’s most popular Cabinet secretary is Obama holdover. Politico. Retrieved August 28, 2017.
- Crookston, Paul (August 28, 2017). Shulkin Receives Bipartisan Praise for Changes at VA. The Washington Free Beacon. Retrieved August 28, 2017.
- A good start at reforming the Veterans Administration. Washington Examiner. October 18, 2017. Retrieved October 18, 2017.
- ↑ Boyer, Dave (April 19, 2017). Trump turns focus to veterans, signs extension for choice in health care. The Washington Times. Retrieved April 19, 2017.
- ↑ Westwood, Sarah (April 19, 2017). Trump signs bill allowing veterans to seek care outside broken VA system. Washington Examiner. Retrieved April 19, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump signs bills to help police officers, veterans. Fox News. June 2, 2017. Retrieved June 2, 2017.
- Spiering, Charlie (June 3, 2017). Donald Trump Signs Bills Assisting Law Enforcement: ‘We Are Behind You 100 Percent’. Breitbart News. Retrieved June 3, 2017.
- ↑ Westwood, Sarah (June 23, 2017). Trump signs 'one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history'. Washington Examiner. Retrieved June 23, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Chakraborty, Barnini (June 23, 2017). Trump signs VA reform bill, following through on campaign promise. Fox News. Retrieved June 23, 2017.
- Fabian, Jordan (June 23, 2017). Trump signs VA reform bill. The Hill. Retrieved June 23, 2017.
- Boyer, Dave (June 23, 2017). Trump signs VA accountability act into law, promises better care for veterans. The Washington Times. Retrieved June 23, 2017.
- Wong, Kristina (June 23, 2017). Trump Signs Bill to Fire Failing VA Employees, Protect Whistleblowers. Breitbart News. Retrieved June 24, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump Signs Bill Extending Veterans Health Care Program. Voice of America. August 12, 2017. Retrieved August 14, 2017.
- Wentling, Nikki (August 12, 2017). Trump signs $3.9 billion VA funding bill to avert crisis for Choice program. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved August 14, 2017.
- Dinan, Stephen (August 12, 2017). Trump signs vets bill to keep veterans choice program afloat. The Washington Times. Retrieved August 14, 2017.
- Trump signs bill to fund veterans medical care program. Breitbart News. August 12, 2017. Retrieved August 14, 2017.
- Gehrke, Joel (August 12, 2017). Trump signs bill helping vets get access to private medical care. Washington Examiner. Retrieved August 14, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump Signs Bill Expanding College Assistance for Veterans. Voice of America (from the Associated Press). August 16, 2017. Retrieved August 17, 2017.
- Wentling, Nikki (August 16, 2017). Trump signs ‘Forever GI Bill,’ boosting aid to student vets. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved August 17, 2017.
- Superville, Darlene (August 17, 2017). Veterans get expanded college assistance under Trump. The Washington Post (from the Associated Press). Retrieved August 17, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Pappas, Alex (August 23, 2017). Trump signs ‘historic’ veterans bill at American Legion convention. Fox News. Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- Wentling, Nikki (August 23, 2017). In Reno, Trump signs bill to overhaul VA appeals process. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- Arter, Melanie (August 23, 2017). Trump Signs Bill to Streamline VA Disability Claims Appeals Process. CNS News. Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- Mitchell, Ellen (August 23, 2017). Trump signs bill to speed up veteran disability appeals process. The Hill. Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- Schallhorn, Kaitlyn (August 23, 2017). Trump to sign veterans bill in Nevada: Here's what it does. Fox News. Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- ↑ Wong, Kristina (April 27, 2017). Trump Signs Executive Order to Hold VA Employees Accountable. Breitbart News. Retrieved April 27, 2017.
- ↑ Boyer, Dave (June 5, 2017). Trump to overhaul VA medical records system to link with Pentagon. The Washington Times. Retrieved June 5, 2017.
- ↑ Singman, Brooke (June 5, 2017). Veterans Affairs to adopt same medical records system as Pentagon. Fox News. Retrieved June 5, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- VA Makes Public Its Disciplinary Action Against Employees. Newsmax. Retrieved July 7, 2017.
- Wentling, Nikki (July 7, 2017). VA employee disciplinary actions are now public information. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved July 7, 2017.
- Rosiak, Luke (July 7, 2017). VA To Post Employee Firings, Stop Rewarding Employees For Bogus Discrimination Claims. The Daily Caller. Retrieved July 8, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Westwood, Sarah (July 7, 2017). Trump administration has fired more than 500 VA employees since January. Washington Examiner. Retrieved July 7, 2017.
- Heretik, Jack (July 7, 2017). More Than 500 VA Employees Fired During Trump Administration. The Washington Free Beacon. Retrieved July 8, 2017.
- Rodriguez, Katherine (July 10, 2017). VA Under Trump Admin Fires More Than 500 Employees, Suspends 200 for Misconduct. Breitbart News. Retrieved July 11, 2017.
- Erickson, Bo; Watson, Ellee (July 7, 2017). Hundreds of VA officials fired since Trump's inauguration. CBS News. Retrieved July 8, 2017.
- Zimmerman, Malia (July 20, 2017). VA has fired 500 employees since Trump took office, report shows. Fox News. Retrieved July 20, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump Announces New Health Care Initiatives for Veterans. Voice of America. August 3, 2017. Retrieved August 3, 2017.
- Boyer, Dave (August 3, 2017). Trump, VA show off new service to help veterans schedule doctor visits. The Washington Times. Retrieved August 3, 2017.
- Heretik, Jack (August 3, 2017). Trump and Shulkin Unveil VA’s Telehealth Program. The Washington Free Beacon. Retrieved August 3, 2017.
- Kasperowicz, Pete (August 3, 2017). Trump rolls out new telehealth services for veterans. Washington Examiner. Retrieved August 3, 2017.
- Przybyla, Heidi M. (August 3, 2017). Trump touts Veterans Affairs 'tele-health' program with new appointment scheduling application. USA Today. Retrieved August 3, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Veteran unemployment rates fall to record low in October. Fox News. November 7, 2017. Retrieved November 8, 2017.
- Rodriquez, Katherine (November 8, 2017). Veteran Unemployment Rate Falls to Record Low 2.7 Percent in October. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 8, 2017.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Boyer, Dave (November 15, 2018). Trump touts achievements for veterans. The Washington Times. Retrieved November 15, 2018.
- Keller, Megan (November 11, 2018). Pence: 'Veterans have no better friend than President Trump'. The Hill. Retrieved November 11, 2018.
- Pence, Mike (November 11, 2018). Vice President Mike Pence: Veterans Day – Veterans have no better friend than President Trump. Fox News. Retrieved November 11, 2018.
- Tata, Anthony J. (December 3, 2018). President Trump – and our veterans – are winning against an entrenched VA bureaucracy. Fox News. Retrieved April 24, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Boyer, Dave (June 6, 2018). Trump signs law to expand health care choices for veterans, reform VA. The Washington Times. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Morrongiello, Gabby (June 6, 2018). Trump signs VA Mission Act into law to give veterans more healthcare choices. Washington Examiner. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Arter, Melanie (June 6, 2018). Trump Signs VA Mission Act to Give Veterans Access to Private Health Care. CNS News. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Trump signs bill to expand private care for veterans. Fox News (from the Associated Press). June 6, 2018. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Slack, Donovan (June 6, 2018). Trump signs VA law to provide veterans more private health care choices. USA Today. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Risk, Richard (June 6, 2018). Trump Signs $55 Billion Bill to Replace VA Choice Program. Military.com. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Spiering, Charlie (June 6, 2018). Donald Trump Recognizes D-Day and Signs Veterans Choice Bill. Breitbart News. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- Shaffer, Tony (June 6, 2018). Real change finally comes to the VA, thanks to Trump. Washington Examiner. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
- To honor Veterans Day, enforce the Mission Act. Washington Examiner. November 11, 2019. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Boyer, Dave (January 9, 2018). Trump signs executive order expanding mental health services for new veterans. The Washington Times. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- Trump orders mental health aid for military veterans to prevent suicide. Reuters. January 9, 2018. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- Slack, Donovan (January 9, 2018). Trump expands mental health benefits to decrease suicide rates among new veterans. USA Today. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- Wentling, Nikki (January 9, 2018). Trump signs order to improve mental health care for new vets. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- Nicholas, Peter; Kesling, Ben (January 9, 2018). rump Signs Order Expanding Mental-Health Help for New Veterans. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- Executive Order 13822 of January 9, 2018 -- Supporting Our Veterans During Their Transition From Uniformed Service to Civilian Life. Federal Register. January 12, 2018. Retrieved January 26, 2018.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Biery, Maria (September 18, 2018). VA celebrates 'historic achievement' after exceeding goal for appeals decisions on disability claims. Washington Examiner. Retrieved September 19, 2018.
- Wing, Terry (September 18, 2018). VA exceeds goals for delivering appeals decisions on disability claims. Federal News Radio. Retrieved September 19, 2018.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Kesling, Ben (September 18, 2018). Some Low-Performing VA Hospitals Show Improvement. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved September 19, 2018.
- Wentling, Nikki (September 18, 2018). VA cites improvements at five hospitals removed from 'high-risk' list. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved September 19, 2018.
- Biery, Maria (September 18, 2018). 5 poorly performing VA hospitals ready to graduate from high-risk list: Report. Washington Examiner. Retrieved September 19, 2018.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Boyer, Dave (November 12, 2018). 'Union business on the taxpayer's dime': Trump administration cracks down on 'official time' at VA. The Washington Times. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- McMorris, Bill (November 12, 2018). Trump Admin Ends Official Time Policy for VA. The Washington Free Beacon. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- Greszler, Rachel (November 12, 2018). Trump Is Cracking Down on Wasted Time and Money at the VA. The Daily Signal. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- Davidson, Joe (November 8, 2018). VA, skirting court order, kills ‘official time’ for medical professionals. The Washington Post. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- Shane, Leo; Bur, Jessie (November 9, 2018). VA, unions spar over move to end physicians’ use of ‘official time'. Military Times. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Kesling, Ben (November 1, 2018). More U.S. Veterans Are Off the Streets. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Biery, Maria (November 1, 2018). Trump administration announces drop in veterans' homelessness. Washington Examiner. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Shane, Leo (November 1, 2018). Fewer veterans were homeless in 2018, after a worrisome rise last year. Military Times. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Wentling, Nikki (November 1, 2018). HUD reports drop to 37,878 homeless veterans in 2018. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Officials: US veteran homelessness declines 5 percent. Fox News (from the Associated Press). November 1, 2018. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Altman, Howard (November 1, 2018). Number of homeless veterans in Tampa Bay dropping faster than nationwide. Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
- Morris, Kyle (November 10, 2018). Exclusive Interview—Ben Carson Touts ‘Tremendous Progress’ Reducing Veteran Homelessness. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 10, 2018.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- De Lea, Brittany (January 14, 2019). US veteran unemployment rate hits all-time low in 2018. Fox Business. Retrieved January 14, 2019.
- Gross, Natalie (January 11, 2019). Vet unemployment hit an all-time low in 2018. Mission accomplished? Military Times. Retrieved January 14, 2019.
- Biery, Maria (November 2, 2019). Veteran unemployment rate hit near-record low in October. Washington Examiner. Retrieved January 15, 2019.
- Gross, Natalie (November 2, 2019). Veteran unemployment falls across the board. Military Times. Retrieved January 15, 2019.
- Samuels, Brett (January 15, 2019). Trump touts 18-year low for veteran unemployment rate. The Hill. Retrieved January 15, 2019.
- Bogorowski, Hanna (January 15, 2019). Trump Touts Low Veteran Unemployment Numbers. The Daily Caller. Retrieved January 15, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Wilkie, Robert (May 24, 2019). Veterans Affairs is changing for the better. Washington Examiner. Retrieved May 26, 2019.
- Blakeman, Brad; Makridis, Christos A. (November 11, 2019). Innovation in veteran services. The Hill. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Principi, Anthony (November 11, 2019). Veterans Affairs reform is now reality under President Trump. The Hill. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). Donald Trump Has Fired, Demoted, or Suspended over 8,000 Veterans Affairs Employees Since Taking Office. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Phillips, Jack (November 11, 2019). Donald Trump Relieved More Than 8,000 Veterans Affairs Employees Since He Took Office: Secretary. The Epoch Times. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- ↑ Caldwell, Dan (June 19, 2019). The VA is improving because it's using more private healthcare. Washington Examiner. Retrieved June 19, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Harper, Jennifer (July 11, 2019). They've got his back: Military vets 'largely supportive' of Trump, says Pew Research Center report. The Washington Times. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (July 10, 2019). Strong support for Trump among veterans in new national poll. Military Times. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Burke, Cathy (July 10, 2019). Pew: Trump's Leadership Polls Higher With Vets Than Public. Newsmax. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Igielnik, Ruth; Parker, Kim; Cilluffo, Anthony (July 11, 2019). Trump Draws Stronger Support From Veterans Than From the Public on Leadership of U.S. Military. Pew Research Center. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Maniam, Shiva (May 26, 2017). U.S. veterans are generally supportive of Trump. Pew Research Center. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Harper, Jennifer (November 5, 2019). Big voting bloc: Military vets view Trump as the master commander. The Washington Times. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
- Tennant, Michael (July 11, 2019). Veterans Say America’s Wars Aren’t Worth It, Poll Finds. The New American. Retrieved July 11, 2019.
- Persons, Sally (November 7, 2019). Trump campaign to launch ‘Veterans for Trump’ coalition. Fox News. Retrieved November 7, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Lane, Sylvan (September 24, 2019). Lower jobless rate improves outlook for vets. The Hill. Retrieved September 24, 2019.
- Church, Nate (September 25, 2019). Veterans Thriving in Strong Post-Recession Economy. Breitbart News. Retrieved September 25, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (January 10, 2020). Veterans end 2019 with another positive job report. Military Times. Retrieved January 10, 2020.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Shane, Leo (June 26, 2019). Benefits for ‘blue water’ veterans finalized after years-long fight. Military Times. Retrieved June 27, 2019.
- Kime, Patricia (June 26, 2019). After Decades of Fighting, the Blue Water Navy Benefits Bill Is Now a Law. Military.com. Retrieved June 27, 2019.
- Kesling, Ben (June 26, 2019). New Agent Orange Law Benefiting Vietnam-Era Veterans Could Leave Some Behind. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved June 27, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Stimson, Brie (December 21, 2019). Trump signs $1.4T spending bill that includes Space Force, avoids shutdown. Fox News. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Boyer, Dave (December 20, 2019). Trump signs massive spending bill, avoiding a government shutdown. The Washington Times. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Elis, Niv (December 20, 2019). Trump signs $1.4 trillion spending package, averting shutdown. The Hill. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Trump Signs 2020 Spending Bills Worth $1.4 Trillion. Voice of America. December 21, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Nathanson, Marc (December 20, 2019). Trump signs $1.4 trillion spending bill to avert government shutdown. ABC News. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Katz, Eric (December 20, 2019). Trump Signs 2020 Spending Bills, Averting Midnight Shutdown. Government Executive. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Pramuk, Jacob (December 20, 2019). Trump signs bills to avoid shutdown, scrap Obamacare taxes and raise tobacco buying age. CNBC. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Knutson, Jacob (December 20, 2019). Trump signs $1.37 trillion spending deal, averting federal shutdown. Axios. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Trump signs $1.4 trillion in spending, avoids shutdown. Associated Press. December 20, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Yen, Hope (December 18, 2019). Budget deal advances VA private care program backed by Trump. Associated Press. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- Yen, Hope (December 18, 2019). [1]. The Washington Times (from the Associated Press). Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Tiron, Roxana (December 6, 2019). Military Spouses, Workers See Wins in $738 Billion Defense Bill. Bloomberg. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- Shane, Leo (December 19, 2019). Gold Star families, hit by surprise tax bills, get relief in budget deal. Military Times. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- Beck, Caroline (December 29, 2019). Military widow’s tax repealed with passage of defense bill. TimesDaily (from Alabama Daily News). Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- Jurkowski, Tom (January 4, 2020). A 40-year wrong corrected: Bipartisanship can work. The Hill. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- Bell, Diane (December 11, 2019). Column: Military widows are celebrating a huge victory in Congress. The San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Kesling, Ben (January 30, 2019). VA Issues New Rules Expanding Access to Private Care. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Slack, Donovan (January 30, 2019). VA unveils proposed rules extending more private care to veterans. USA Today. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Kheel, Rebecca (January 30, 2019). VA unveils proposal to expand private health care for veterans. The Hill. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Wentling, Nikki (January 30, 2019). VA unveils proposed new rules for expanding private-sector care. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (January 30, 2019). New VA plan: Vets facing 30-minute drives, 20-day waits for appointments could get private-sector care instead. Military Times. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Kime, Patricia (January 30, 2019). Proposed VA Rules Would Expand Veterans' Access to Private Health Care. Military.com. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- Steinhauer, Jennifer (January 30, 2019). Veterans Will Have More Access to Private Health Care Under New V.A. Rules. The New York Times. Retrieved January 31, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Brook, Tom Vanden (February 26, 2019). Purple Heart recipients will get top priority for their claims, VA announces. USA Today. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- Wentling, Nikki (February 26, 2019). VA announces new policy to prioritize Purple Heart recipients for VA claims. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- Kime, Patricia (February 26, 2019). Purple Heart Recipients Will Move to Front of Line for VA Claims, Wilkie Says. Military.com. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (February 26, 2019). Purple Heart vets will get disability claims moved quicker. Military Times. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- Riley-Topping, Rory E. (March 1, 2019). Prioritizing Purple Heart recipients is the right move for VA. The Hill. Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Howell, Tom (March 4, 2019). Trump order eases transition for veterans, active-duty military to Merchant Marine. The Washington Times. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Wentling, Nikki (March 4, 2019). Trump executive order eases veteran transition into Merchant Marine. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Xiao, Bowen (March 4, 2019). Trump Signs Executive Order on Transition of Troops Into Merchant Marines. The Epoch Times. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Kime, Patricia (March 4, 2019). Executive Order Aims to Attract Transitioning Troops to the Merchant Marine. Military.com. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Adamczyk, Ed (March 4, 2019). Trump eases restrictions to help military members join Merchant Marine. UPI. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Schultz, Marisa (March 4, 2019). Trump to loosen restrictions for vets to join US Merchant Marine. New York Post. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Trump eases restrictions for vets to be Merchant Mariners. Associated Press. March 4, 2019. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Navarro, Peter (March 4, 2019). Peter Navarro: President Trump takes bold step to transition veterans into US Merchant Marine. Fox News. March 3, 2019. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- Faram, Mark D. (March 4, 2019). Why Trump is trying to help sailors become merchant mariners. Navy Times. Retrieved March 4, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Hopkins, Anna (March 5, 2019). https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-signs-executive-order-aimed-at-lowering-veteran-suicide-rate. Fox News. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Spiering, Charlie (March 5, 2019). Donald Trump Plans Cabinet-Level Task Force to Study Veterans Suicides. Breitbart News. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Jativa, Daniel (March 5, 2019). Trump signs executive order aimed at helping veterans at risk of suicide. Washington Examiner. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Boyer, Dave (March 5, 2019). Trump signs executive order to stop 'crisis' of veterans' suicide. The Washington Times. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Kesling, Ben (March 5, 2019). Trump Orders Creation of Task Force Addressing Veteran Suicide. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Wentling, Ben (March 5, 2019). Trump creates task force to combat veteran suicide. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Fordham, Evie (March 5, 2019). Trump Signs Executive Order to Combat 'One of Our Nation's Most Heartbreaking Tragedies'. The Daily Caller. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Slack, Donovan (March 5, 2019). Trump ramps up effort to prevent veteran suicides with executive order creating task force. USA Today. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (March 5, 2019). The new plan to prevent veteran suicides: new grants, better research, more community focus. Military Times. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
- Cuthbertson, Charlotte (March 5, 2019). Trump Sets Up Task Force to Prevent Veteran Suicides. The Epoch Times. Retrieved March 6, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Lucas, Fred (August 27, 2019). Trump admin allows veterans’ hospitals to have Bibles, Christmas trees again. LifeSiteNews (from The Daily Signal). Retrieved August 28, 2019.
- Lucas, Fred (August 26, 2019). VA Lifts Ban on Bibles in Move to Support Religious Freedom. The Daily Signal. Retrieved August 28, 2019.
- Vondracek, Christopher (August 27, 2019). VA secretary rejects Obama religious expression rules: 'They did not know the makeup of the force'. The Washington Times. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- Vondracek, Christopher (August 28, 2019). 'The Bible stays': Mike Pence blasts 'politically correct' efforts undertaken by Obama. The Washington Times. Retrieved August 28, 2019.
- VA Hospitals Can Distribute, Display Bibles Under Revised Policy. Christianity Today (from Religion News Service). July 9, 2019. Retrieved August 28, 2019.
- Furr, Amy (August 29, 2019). Mike Pence Declares VA Hospitals Will Not Be ‘Religion-Free Zones’. Breitbart News. Retrieved August 29, 2019.
- Parke, Caleb (August 29, 2019). Pence defends Bible at VA hospital, derides 'politically correct' Obama. Fox News. Retrieved August 29, 2019.
- Cimmino, Jeffrey (August 29, 2019). Pence defends Bible at VA hospitals, vows they 'will not be religion-free zones'. Washington Examiner. Retrieved August 29, 2019.
- Starnes, Todd (August 30, 2019). Todd Starnes: Trump administration stops bullies from banning VA hospital Bibles. Fox News. Retrieved August 30, 2019.
- Haq, Masooma (August 30, 2019). Vice President Pence: Standing for Religious Freedom More Important than Political Correctness. The Epoch Times. Retrieved August 30, 2019.
- Russell, Nicole (August 31, 2019). Pence joins the fight for religious freedom and Bible displays in VA hospitals. Washington Examiner. Retrieved August 31, 2019.
- Bohon, Dave (August 31, 2019). Vice President Vows “Bible Stays” at Embattled VA Facility. The New American. Retrieved August 31, 2019.
- Freiburger, Calvin (September 3, 2019). Pence defends Bible at veterans hospital, declares VA not ‘religion-free zone’. LifeSiteNews. Retrieved September 3, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Spiering, Charlie (August 21, 2019). Donald Trump Cancels Federal Student Debt for Wounded Warriors. Breitbart News. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- O'Reilly, Andrew (August 21, 2019). Trump signs executive order canceling student loan debt for disabled veterans. Fox News. Retrieved September 11, 2019.
- Boyer, Dave (August 21, 2019). Trump signs order to wipe out student loan debt for disabled veterans. The Washington Times. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Xiao, Bowen (August 21, 2019). Trump Signs Memorandum to Expedite Student Loan Debt Elimination for Disabled Vets. The Epoch Times. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Pearce, Tim (August 21, 2019). Trump cancels student loan debt held by disabled veterans. Washington Examiner. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Samuels, Brett (August 21, 2019). Trump orders elimination of student loan debt for thousands of disabled veterans. The Hill. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Superville, Darlene (August 21, 2019). Trump signs student debt forgiveness for disabled veterans. Associated Press. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Kenning, Chris (August 21, 2019). Trump signs order automatically forgiving student loan debt for disabled veterans. Louisville Courier-Journal. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Wentling, Nikki (August 21, 2019). Trump directs agencies to create faster debt forgiveness process for disabled vets. Stars and Stripes. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Ross, Chuck (August 21, 2019). Trump Signs Executive Order To Wipe Out ‘Every Penny’ Of Student Debt For Severely Disabled Vets. The Daily Caller. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Kime, Patricia (August 21, 2019). Trump Signs Directive Expediting Student Debt Forgiveness for Some Veterans. Military.com. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- Shane, Leo (August 21, 2019). Trump orders easier process to forgive disabled vets’ student loans. Miltiary Times. Retrieved August 21, 2019.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). Donald Trump Praises the American Warrior at Veterans Day Parade in New York City. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Blitzer, Ronn (November 11, 2019). Trump honors veterans at New York ceremony: 'The glory of your deeds will only grow greater with time'. Fox News. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Phillips, Jack (November 11, 2019). ‘Truly an Honor’: Trump Becomes First Sitting President to Attend NYC Veterans Day Parade. The Epoch Times. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Xiao, Bowen (November 11, 2019). Trump Honors Veterans at Iconic New York Parade. The Epoch Times. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Boyer, Dave (November 11, 2019). Trump marks 100th annual Veterans Day parade in New York. The Washington Times. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Trump kicks off Veterans Day tribute in NYC. Associated Press. November 11, 2019. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Spiering, Charlie (November 10, 2019). Donald Trump Kicking Off 100th Annual Veterans Parade in New York City. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Van Brugen, Isabel (November 7, 2019). Trump to Make History as First President to Attend NYC Veterans Day Parade. The Epoch Times. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- Spiering, Charlie (November 11, 2019). On Veterans Day, Mike Pence Reaches Out to Struggling Veterans. Breitbart News. Retrieved November 11, 2019.
- ↑ Vernon, Andrew (January 4, 2020). Veterans Affairs improvements have made a positive impact. The Hill. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- ↑ Multiple references:
- All Information (Except Text) for S.153 - Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act
- President Trump signs bill into law supporting veterans in STEM careers
- President Trump signs jobs bill in support of veterans
- Trump signs bill promoting STEM careers for veterans
- President Donald Trump puts Veterans First
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Bill Announcement - March 21, 2020 | The White House
- S. 3503: A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to treat certain programs of education converted to distance learning by reason of emergencies and health-related situations in the same manner as programs of education pursued at educational institutions, and for other purposes. - GovTrack
- S.3503 - A bill to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to treat certain programs of education converted to distance learning by reason of emergencies and health-related situations in the same manner as programs of education pursued at educational institutions, and for other purposes. | Congress.gov
- ↑ Bill Announcement - April 10, 2020 | The White house
- ↑ Two references:
- ↑ Two references:
- ↑ Bill Announcement - August 8, 2020 | The White House
- ↑ 51.0 51.1 Here Are the 2 Veteran-Supporting Bills President Trump Just Signed into Law
- ↑ Two references:
- ↑ Two references:
- ↑ Two references:
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump Gives Shout out to World War II Veteran Who Attended His Arizona Rally
- WWII veteran carried to his seat at Phoenix Trump rally to 'USA' cheers, video shows
- Trump praises 100-year-old World War II veteran carried to seat at his Phoenix rally
- WATCH: Trump supporters at rally carry WWII veteran to his seat amid chants of 'USA! USA! USA!'
- WWII veteran carried to seat at Trump rally in Phoenix
- 'It was incredible': 100-year-old WWII veteran, son speak about viral moment at Trump rally
- ↑ Multiple references:
- ↑ Multiple references:
- ↑ Multiple references:
- ↑ Multiple references:
- ↑ Multiple references:
- Trump travels to politically key North Carolina to commemorate end of World War Two
- President Donald Trump honors WWII veterans today in Wilmington, NC
- Trump honors WWII veterans, formally recognizes Wilmington, NC as 'Heritage City'
- “We Love You, President Trump!” – Trump Arrives in Wilmington, North Carolina to Honor World War II Vets (VIDEO)
- ↑ Whistleblower claims leaders of VA sought damaging information on woman alleging sexual assault
- ↑ Two references: