To the Point
Veterans and the VA Backlog
The Veterans Administration is far behind in processing claims. We hear why so many vets are so frustrated, despite bipartisan promises they'll get what they deserve.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenHere's the kind of decision required of the Veterans Administration: is that traumatic brain injury from high school football or a roadside bomb in Iraq? Questions like that are just one reason the VA is so far behind in processing claims. We hear why so many veterans are so frustrated, despite bipartisan promises that they'll get what they deserve. Also, a Pennsylvania judge blocks the state's controversial voter ID law, and preparing for a presidential debate.
Banner image: VA Headquarters in Washington, DC. Photo by afagen/flickr
In this episode
3 storiesPennsylvania Judge Blocks Controversial Voter ID Law
Voters in Pennsylvania can still be asked for photo ID in November's election, but if they don't have it, they can vote anyway. That's the ruling of Judge Robert Simpson. Angela Couloumbis reports on state politics for the Philadelphia Inquirer 's Capitol Bureau in Harrisburg.
Read the story7 minThe Worst Backlog in Washington
Despite all the issues that keep them apart, President Obama, Mitt Romney and every other American politician agree that American veterans should get the lifetime benefits they deserve. But the Veterans Administration has been infamous for its "backlog" in processing claims, going back to before September 11.
Read the story34 minPresidential Candidates Prep for Debate
Samuel Popkin is a long-time political consultant and now political science professor at the University of California, San Diego. He played Ronald Reagan when incumbent Jimmy Carter was preparing for the 1980 debates. His most recent book is The Candidate : What It takes to Win -- and Hold -- the White House.
Read the story9 min
