Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins is pushing back hard against CNN, accusing the network of spreading false information about proposed call center automation that could impact thousands of VA employees.
AT A GLANCE
- CNN reported VA plans to automate call centers, potentially eliminating 80,000 jobs.
- VA Secretary Doug Collins denies any finalized automation plans exist.
- Collins accused CNN’s Brian Todd of relying on false leaks and spreading disinformation.
- The VA stresses the importance of maintaining live assistance for veterans.
Collins Slams CNN Over ‘Fake Scoop’
Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins has publicly rebuked CNN and correspondent Brian Todd over a report alleging the VA intends to automate its call centers, possibly eliminating tens of thousands of jobs. In a detailed statement, Collins asserted the report was based on false information deliberately leaked by individuals uninvolved in the planning process.
“Brian’s scoop was based on false, deliberately leaked ‘information’ from people who aren’t involved in our planning process,” Collins said, as quoted in a NewsBusters article. “In other words, Brian was the target of a disinformation operation designed to generate fake news.”
The CNN segment suggested the VA’s automation efforts could impact 80,000 employees, sparking fears among veterans’ advocates about reduced access to live support services. Critics described the plan as “heartless and dangerous,” voicing concern that it could hinder timely assistance for veterans in need.
VA press secretary Peter Kasperowicz reinforced Collins’ stance, stating that no decisions on automation have been finalized and that media claims to the contrary are misleading. His remarks were cited in the same AOL report.
Watch CNN’s coverage of the VA automation controversy.
Journalistic Integrity Under Fire
Collins did not stop at disputing the facts of the CNN report. He questioned the network’s journalistic integrity, particularly criticizing its decision not to issue a retraction. According to Collins, senior CNN executives instead requested a response statement from the VA rather than correcting the story.
“What happened to the journalistic principle of verifying something is true before publication?” Collins asked, drawing parallels to recent media accountability issues. His concerns were further detailed in a report from the Daily Wire.
In a tweet shared by journalist Kyle Becker, Collins also called on CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer to “hold your employee, Brian Todd, to a higher standard,” underscoring his concern about what he sees as a recurring issue of irresponsible reporting.
Fallout for Veterans and Employees
Beyond the media clash, the report has spotlighted real concerns about how cost-saving measures could affect VA operations. The department is working with the Office of Government Efficiency to review potential changes, which may include layoffs in administrative and contractual roles—but not necessarily call center agents.
Still, veterans’ advocates fear that even the consideration of automation could disrupt critical services. “Maintaining human interaction is essential,” one Democratic staffer told AOL. Others worry that changes to the VA’s Human Resources infrastructure could impact morale, hiring timelines, and overall service quality.
The VA plans to monitor any implemented changes closely, with periodic assessments to evaluate the impact of workforce reductions. However, as political and public pressure builds, questions remain about the future of veteran support infrastructure.
Collins has promised to remain vigilant about media accountability while emphasizing the VA’s commitment to serving veterans without compromising service standards or transparency.
As the debate over automation and media ethics continues, this controversy illustrates the delicate balance between policy reform, public trust, and responsible journalism.
