VA IG Nominee Cheryl Mason Grilled on Objectivity and Relationship with Secretary Collins

Concerns Over Inspector General Nominee's Objectivity

• 🎯 Senator Angus King expressed concern that VA IG nominee Cheryl Mason's close relationship with VA Secretary Doug Collins, whom she advised for four months, could compromise her ability to be objective and independent.
• ⚠️ King highlighted that it is unusual for IGs to be appointed from within the agency they are meant to oversee, citing a potential conflict of interest.
• 🔑 Mason, however, stated she was brought back due to her 28 years of experience as an impartial and independent figure within the department, emphasizing that the Secretary sought impartiality and challenges to conventional wisdom.

VA Inspector General Office Budget Cuts

• 📉 King informed Mason that the VA's Office of the Inspector General is facing a budget cut of 100 people, which he views as a lack of respect and confidence in the IG's role.
• ❓ Mason stated she was unaware of these budget cuts prior to the hearing.

Non-Disclosure Agreements Under Scrutiny

• 📜 Senator King raised serious concerns about non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) being circulated within the department, suggesting they are illegal and unnecessary.
• 🚫 He pointed out that the NDAs lack legally required language protecting whistleblowers and the Inspector General, and are being used for restructuring discussions rather than sensitive procurement or national security information.
• ⚖️ King hopes Mason will investigate these NDAs, which he believes are illegal and do not inspire confidence in open and transparent processes.
• ✅ Mason acknowledged the concerns and stated she would take them under advisement, believing the whistleblower act should be followed.