Trump names former Georgia congressman Doug Collins as his pick to lead the VA

Doug Collins speaks at a Donald Trump campaign event in Atlanta.
FILE - Former Rep. Doug Collins speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)

Former Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, a key defender of President-elect Donald Trump during his first impeachment proceedings, has been nominated to be the Secretary for Veterans Affairs.

“Doug is a Veteran himself, who currently serves our Nation as a Chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command, and fought for our Country in the Iraq War,” Trump said in a statement Thursday announcing the pick. “We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need. Thank you, Doug, for your willingness to serve our Country in this very important role!”

With the selection, Trump has now elevated four of the eight Republicans who defended him during the first impeachment proceeding against him for prominent roles in the incoming administration.