Friend, I’m outraged.

Senate Republicans just voted to deny health care benefits to an estimated 3.5 million veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their military service.

Keep in mind this same bill passed in the House and Senate a month ago, but had to be re-voted on after a small, technical change in language.

This time around, 25 Republicans changed their minds. And the reason is outrageous. These United States senators decided to throw a temper tantrum after Democrats announced their plan to combat climate change and lower prescription drug costs. That’s right—they were willing to play politics with American service members' health out of spite.

Truthfully, I can’t begin to wrap my head around it. I know Mitch McConnell and other Republicans have met with sick veterans and their families, just like I have. Women like Pat Cram and June Heston who lost their husbands to burn pit exposure while serving overseas. They have advocated so fiercely for change so other families don’t have to go through what they did. But Mitch McConnell decided that he could play politics in this moment, which is disgraceful and the worst of politics.

To the veterans and their loved ones who feel betrayed, I will keep fighting for you. Because fighting for you in Congress is a privilege and, more importantly, it’s my job. That’s something Mitch McConnell should share.

And to everyone paying attention: We know this is not right. We must stand up and demand urgent action for our veterans. Every moment that Republicans delay and deny these health benefits, veterans suffer. Get angry, get loud, and fight with me to build a Senate that is so much better than this.

Veterans, Vermonters, all Americans deserve better.

In solidarity,

Peter Welch