AUGUSTA, Ga. () – U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff wants answers when it comes to the care of Augusta veterans.

On Tuesday in Washington, D.C., Ossoff asked VA Secretary Doug A. Collins about leadership challenges at the Augusta VA impacting veterans’ care.

According to officials, Ossoff is the Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, and on Tuesday, he held a hearing about VA’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

According to a released report from the VA Office of Inspector General, it was reported that VA Augusta leaders fostered a “culture of fear” with a “threatening and abusive communication style” and allegedly retaliated against employees who shared concerns.

“I know the Acting Director was put on leave pending an investigation. I think that’s a positive step,” Ossoff stated. “Can you confirm that it’s among your highest priorities to get a permanent new leadership staff in at Augusta?”

Officials state that following Ossoff’s push, Collins confirmed that the VA is prioritizing their search for permanent leadership at the Augusta VA.

To watch Senator Ossoff’s line of questioning, you can watch the full video here.