I was serious months ago when I suggested to the service organizations, let's start with a blank sheet of paper.

I think it is absolutely essential that you tell us whether the next step are congressional steps, the next steps are VA steps, the next step is to stimulate the national debate.

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

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

Would it be your intention to foster a collaborative relationship between the VA and Congress?

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

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.

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?

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

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?

I believe that the best accomplishment I could enjoy is to have the transformation initiative that is coordinated out of the Office of Policy and Planning trickle through in the best possible way.