On Monday, two veterans groups called on Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki and two aides to resign as a Phoenix veterans' hospital is under investigation.
The American Legion and Concerned Veterans for America both sought for the secretary to step down from his position, along with Under Secretary of Health Robert Petzel and Under Secretary of Benefits Allison Hickey, reports CNN. AL national commander Daniel M. Dellinger said, "It's not something we do lightly."
He added, "But we do so today because it is our responsibility as advocate for the men and women who have worn this nation's uniform." The VA and White House both released statements supporting Shinseki.
According to The Associated Press, Dellinger said Shinseki and others were not doing their jobs properly, which has resulted in inadequate oversight and other problems.
CNN notes that about 23 veterans died because of delayed care in hospitals across the United States, including in Georgia and Texas. The true body count might be higher as 40 patients who died at a Phoenix area hospital might have also died due to not receiving care in time.