Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) and Gov. Tim Walz (D), both candidates in the 2024 presidential election, had their medical records improperly accessed by staff members of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). According to investigators, at least a dozen employees inappropriately viewed the candidates’ health records in violation of federal privacy laws.
The breach, which occurred over the summer, has sparked a federal investigation led by the VA Inspector General’s office. Evidence has already been passed to prosecutors, and the investigation is looking into whether the records were shared with others.
Some VA employees told investigators they were simply curious to view the medical files due to the scrutiny surrounding the candidates’ military service. Vance and Walz have both faced intense examination of their military records during the presidential campaign, with Vance recently accusing Walz of embellishing his service in the National Guard.
The improper access is a significant violation of privacy, and VA officials notified both the Vance and Walz campaigns of the breach. The candidates are scheduled to debate soon, adding further intensity to the 2024 presidential race.
Walz’s military service has been a point of contention, with Vance criticizing the governor for dropping out of the National Guard before his unit’s deployment to Iraq. Additionally, Walz’s rank was reduced to master sergeant before retirement, despite previous claims of holding a higher rank.
The investigation continues as questions remain about the motivation behind the VA employees’ actions.
