WASHINGTON — In his first White House Cabinet Meeting as Secretary of Veterans Affairs yesterday, VA Secretary Robert Wilkie underscored for President Donald Trump and the public how the President’s policies have led to near-record-low unemployment rates for America’s Veterans.
Asked by the President to talk about Veterans’ Choice with reporters present, Secretary Wilkie said, “Sir, it’s moving along well, but I would start with something else. We are experiencing, with the economic boom, lowering rates of vets unemployed. Probably the best trends that we’ve seen in many, many years…And that is — that is a boon for our warriors across the country.”
Under President Trump, as of the end of July 2018, Veterans’ unemployment stood at 3.0%. By contrast, at this point in the previous administration (July 2010) Veterans’ unemployment was 8.4% — almost triple the current figure.
Just as impressive, when President Trump took office Veterans’ unemployment was 4.5% and has declined and remained under that figure ever since, until reaching the 3% figure in July.
“Giving back to our nation’s heroes remains one of the President’s top priorities, and giving Veterans jobs through a strong economy does just that,” Wilkie said.
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Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov
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