Sanders: Bush Needs to Help War Veterans

Bernie Sanders stands up for veterans

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders says President Bush needs to do more to help war veterans.

At a congressional hearing, Sanders told the leadership of Veterans of Foreign Wars, that the U.S. must fulfill its duty to help men and women in uniform. Congress allocated $43 billion dollars in discretionary spending for the Department of Veterans Affairs last year.

The President requested almost $45 billion this year. That's a four percent increase, but Senator Sanders says it's not enough.

"Instead of worrying about some of the wealthiest people in this country who are doing just fine, maybe it's time we changed our national priorities and paid attention to the men and women who have put their lives on the line defending this country, he said.

Congress can allocate more money than requested by the president. That happened last year when Congress gave the department about $3.8 billion more than the President requested.

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