Of all of the Cabinet departments, the Veterans Affairs Department should have access to the latest technology and most efficient service delivery models. It should have the highest-trained and most dedicated staff and the most modern facilities. It is the agency responsible for administering benefit programs for veterans, their families and their survivors. It is a shambles and delivers substandard care and service to those who risked life and limb to defend this nation and protect the blessing of liberty. The Veterans Affairs secretary oversees a budget of about $90 billion and a staff of about 235,000 employees. It is more necessary than ever to apply market principles to managing the government. Politicians have cried about government waste for years. The reasons for action are now clearer than ever.