I do believe that there is a willingness on both sides, at DOD and at VA, spearheaded by General Shinseki, to make this work.

How important do you believe a free flow of information is between the agency and Congress?

Would you agree that homelessness and chronic homelessness suggest a breakdown in our ability to deliver the wraparound care out of the Veterans Administration that we should?

If we are going to eliminate homelessness, a major effort needs to go toward preventing homelessness.

I really do believe that the vision that Secretary Shinseki and the President have articulated for the VA is one that can be effective and realistic.

I know this is a priority for President Obama and Secretary Shinseki and I commend Dr. Petzel for his recognition of the importance of expanding VA access to Priority 8 veterans.

We are a nation at war, nearly the longest the United States of America has ever been engaged in.

VA has more tools and resources than ever before to end homelessness for our Nation's veterans.

I think your experience and record may uniquely position you as the right person for this job.

If confirmed, do I have your assurance that you will be proactive in notifying the Committee, both sides of the aisle, on any issues that deal with the Veterans Administration?

If confirmed, do you pledge to ensure that my staff and I will be provided the requested information to the fullest extent permitted by law without hassle and delays?

I told you that I believed what VHA needs is a leader who will shake things up, one who is bold.