WASHINGTON – (INT) – Two Inland Empire congressmen are criticizing Veterans Affairs Secretary Bob McDonald for his remarks about wait times for vets seeking medical treatment.

McDonald compared it to waiting for a ride at Disneyland.

Rep. Paul Cook (R-Apple Valley) said getting timely access to the healthcare is quite literally a life or death issue for many veterans. And, Cook said “The Secretary’s comments were disgraceful and indicative of a culture of bureaucracy and disdain at the VA.”

Re. Ken Calvert (R-Corona) blasted McDonald saying his comparison to a trip to Disneyland “is utterly out of touch.” Calvert said the VA leadership continues to be neglectful with the serious problems within their agency. “The wait times sure as hell did matter to the veterans who died while waiting for services,” Calvert said.

McDonald later apologized for his remarks. But, Assemblywoman Melissa A. Melendez, R-Lake Elsinore, has sent a letter to McDonald calling for his resignation.

Story Date: May 30, 2016