VA employees investigated for improper access to Vance and Walz medical records

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An investigation is underway after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) confirmed that employees improperly accessed the medical records of vice presidential nominees, Senator JD Vance of Ohio and Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota. Both men, who are military veterans, had their records viewed by at least 12 VA employees without authorization, according to reports from the Washington Post.

Vance, a Marine veteran, and Walz, a former member of the National Guard, are set to participate in the upcoming vice presidential debate. The VA expressed its concern over the breach, with VA press secretary Terrence Hayes stating, “We take the privacy of the Veterans we serve very seriously and have strict policies in place to protect their records. Any attempt to improperly access Veteran records by VA personnel is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

The VA has also forwarded evidence to the Department of Justice, which is considering potential charges against the involved employees. As of now, the motives behind the unauthorized access have not been disclosed. The agency reiterated to its staff that accessing veteran records outside of official duties is prohibited and could lead to dismissal.

Both campaigns have been informed of the breach as the investigation continues.