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[ [link removed] ]Welch for Vermont
Friend, I’m outraged.
Senate Republicans just voted to deny health care benefits to an estimated
3.5 million veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their military
service.
Keep in mind this same bill passed in the House and Senate a month ago,
but had to be re-voted on after a small, technical change in language.
This time around, 25 Republicans changed their minds. And the reason is
outrageous. These United States senators decided to throw a temper tantrum
after Democrats announced their plan to combat climate change and lower
prescription drug costs. That’s right—they were willing to play politics
with American service members' health out of spite.
Truthfully, I can’t begin
to wrap my head around it. I know Mitch McConnell and other Republicans
have met with sick veterans and their families, just like I have. Women
like Pat Cram and June Heston who lost their husbands to burn pit exposure
while serving overseas. They have advocated so fiercely for change so
other families don’t have to go through what they did. But Mitch McConnell
decided that he could play politics in this moment, which is disgraceful
and the worst of politics.
To the veterans and their loved ones who feel betrayed, I will keep
fighting for you. Because fighting for you in Congress is a privilege and,
more importantly, it’s my job. That’s something Mitch McConnell should
share.
And to everyone paying attention: We know this is not right. We must stand
up and demand urgent action for our veterans. Every moment that
Republicans delay and deny these health benefits, veterans suffer. Get
angry, get loud, and fight with me to build a Senate that is so much
better than this.
Veterans, Vermonters, all Americans deserve better.
In solidarity,
Peter Welch
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