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The Collins Chronicle

An in-depth exploration of Doug Collins' career in public service, from his early life and military service to his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives and his current role as Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

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Biography

Douglas Allen Collins

Born on August 16, 1966, in Gainesville, Georgia, Douglas Allen Collins is a distinguished American lawyer, politician, and military officer. He currently serves as the 12th United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs, a position he assumed in February 2025. A dedicated member of the Republican Party, Collins has a significant public service record, including his service as a U.S. Representative for Georgia's 9th congressional district from 2013 to 2021 and in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013.

Military Service & Chaplaincy

Collins has a notable military career, serving as a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve since 2002. He was promoted to the rank of Colonel in 2023. His service includes a deployment to Balad Air Base in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008. His commitment to service extends beyond his military role, reflecting a deep dedication to community and country.

Political Journey

Collins' political career began in the Georgia House of Representatives, where he served three terms. He was then elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Georgia's 9th congressional district. During his tenure, he held significant leadership positions, including Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee and Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference. His career trajectory demonstrates a consistent engagement with legislative and policy-making processes at both state and federal levels.

Early Life & Education

Georgia Roots

Born and raised in Gainesville, Georgia, Collins' upbringing was influenced by his father's long career as a Georgia State Trooper. This background likely instilled a strong sense of duty and public service from an early age.

Academic Foundation

Collins pursued higher education diligently, earning a Bachelor of Arts in political science and criminal law from the University of North Georgia in 1988. He furthered his theological studies at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, obtaining a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in 1996. His legal education culminated in a Juris Doctor from Atlanta's John Marshall Law School in 2007, providing a robust academic framework for his subsequent career.

Professional Career

Early Professional Roles

Prior to his political career, Collins interned for U.S. Representative Ed Jenkins. He also worked as a salesman specializing in hazardous material safety products. For a period, he served as a senior pastor at Chicopee Baptist Church while co-owning a retail business with his wife. He has also maintained a legal practice, serving as a managing partner at the Collins and Csider law firm since 2010.

Military Service

Air Force Reserve Chaplain

Collins' military service began with the United States Navy in the late 1980s as a chaplain. Following the September 11 attacks, he joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command. He currently serves as a Colonel and chaplain within the Air Force Reserve. His deployment to Balad Air Base during the Iraq War in 2008 highlights his commitment to supporting troops in challenging environments.

Decorations and Awards

Collins has received numerous military awards and decorations, reflecting his dedicated service. These include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air and Space Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, Air Force Meritorious Unit Award, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Frame, Air and Space Longevity Service Award, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Air Force Training Ribbon. He also holds the Air Force Christian Chaplains Insignia.

Georgia House of Representatives

Tenure and Legislation

Serving three terms from 2007 to 2013, Collins represented Georgia's 27th district. He was instrumental in sponsoring Governor Nathan Deal's plan to reform the HOPE Scholarship program, advocating for measures to ensure its fiscal stability. He also supported initiatives to expand charter schools through constitutional amendments. Collins also signed a pledge against global warming-related legislation that would raise taxes, aligning with specific fiscal policy priorities.

Elections

Collins was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2006, winning unopposed in both the primary and general elections. He was subsequently re-elected unopposed in 2008 and 2010, demonstrating strong constituent support within his district.

U.S. House of Representatives

Congressional Elections

In 2012, Collins successfully ran for the U.S. House in Georgia's 9th congressional district. After a competitive Republican primary runoff against Martha Zoller, he secured the nomination. He went on to win the general election with a significant majority. He was re-elected in 2018, defeating Democratic challenger Josh McCall with nearly 80% of the vote.

Committee Leadership

During his time in the House, Collins served on key committees, including the House Committee on Rules and the House Committee on the Judiciary. He notably served as the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, playing a significant role in oversight and legislative debate. He also held the position of Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference from 2017 to 2019.

2020 Senate Election Bid

Candidacy and Outcome

In January 2020, Collins announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate special election in Georgia. He sought to complete the term of retiring Senator Johnny Isakson. Collins ran in a crowded field, including incumbent Republican Kelly Loeffler. He finished third in the nonpartisan blanket primary, failing to advance to the runoff election. He subsequently endorsed Loeffler for the runoff.

Post-Election Statements

Following the 2020 elections, Collins made statements regarding alleged fraud in Georgia's election results. These statements drew criticism from Georgia's Secretary of State, Brad Raffensperger, who publicly referred to Collins as a "liar" and "charlatan."

Secretary of Veterans Affairs

Nomination and Confirmation

On November 14, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Doug Collins as the United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Collins' nomination received endorsements from numerous veterans' organizations. He appeared before the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs in January 2025 and was confirmed by the Senate on February 4, 2025, by a vote of 77-23. He officially took office on February 5, 2025.

Initial Actions and Role

Upon assuming office, Collins was sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. He served as the designated survivor during President Trump's address to Congress in March 2025. Shortly thereafter, Collins announced plans for significant workforce reductions within the Department of Veterans Affairs, stating that approximately 72,000 positions would be eliminated, though critical healthcare and support roles would remain unaffected.

Political Positions

Social Issues

Collins holds conservative stances on social issues. He opposes abortion and has expressed views aligning with the pro-life movement. He also opposes same-sex marriage and voted against the Equality Act, which aims to expand civil rights protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Healthcare Policy

He has been a vocal opponent of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), referring to it as a failed and costly experiment. Collins supported the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, believing it would stimulate business growth and benefit American families.

Foreign Policy & National Security

Collins has expressed strong support for President Donald Trump's policies. In one instance, he made controversial remarks regarding Democrats and terrorism following the killing of Qasem Soleimani, later issuing an apology for his specific phrasing. His voting record and public statements generally reflect a hawkish stance on national security and foreign policy matters.

Awards & Recognition

Military Decorations

As detailed in the Military Service section, Collins has received a comprehensive array of military decorations recognizing his service and achievements.

Organizational Endorsements

His nomination for Secretary of Veterans Affairs was notably endorsed by a wide range of prominent veterans' organizations, underscoring his perceived commitment to veterans' welfare.

Personal Life

Family and Faith

Doug Collins married Lisa Jordan in 1988. Lisa is a retired elementary school teacher. The couple resides in Gainesville, Georgia, and they have three children. One of their children has spina bifida, a condition that has informed their family's advocacy and perspective. Collins is a practicing Southern Baptist and attends Lakewood Baptist Church, reflecting his deep religious convictions.

Published Works

"The Clock and the Calendar"

Collins is the author of the book The Clock and the Calendar: A Front-Row Look at the Democrats' Obsession with Donald Trump, published in 2021. This work offers his perspective on contemporary political dynamics and the relationship between the Democratic Party and former President Donald Trump.

References

Source Citations

The information presented in this document is derived from publicly available sources, primarily the Wikipedia article on Doug Collins (politician).

  • Biography of Former Rep. Doug Collins. legistorm.com.
  • "The Congressional Record". February 13, 2023. (PDF)
  • "Collins won't run for Senate or Georgia governor in 2022". WTOC-TV. Associated Press. April 26, 2021.
  • "Top DOJ official drafted resignation email amid Trump election pressure". Politico. August 4, 2021.
  • "WATCH LIVE: Doug Collins testifies at Senate confirmation hearing for VA secretary". YouTube. January 21, 2025.
  • Malloy, Daniel. "Collins sworn in as Georgia's new member of Congress". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. January 3, 2013.
  • "Doug Collins (R-Ga.) U.S. Representative, Georgia, District 9 (Since 2013)". washingtonpost.com. March 13, 2013.
  • Lavender, Rick. "North Hall's Doug Collins answers 'call' to office". ganiesvilletimes.com. January 7, 2007.
  • "Georgia, 9th House District Doug Collins (R)". nationaljournal.com. March 13, 2013.
  • "Doug Collins – Candidate for the 9th Congressional District". athensgop.com. November 2, 2011.
  • "The Hill's 2012 New Members Guide". thehill.com. November 13, 2012.
  • Huang, Cindy; Rolfes, Ellen. "Meet the Incoming Congressional Class Veterans". PBS NewsHour. November 12, 2012.
  • Blackwood, Harris. "Rep. Doug Collins, called to serve in Iraq, will run for re-election". gainesvilletimes.com. May 10, 2008.
  • "GA State House 027- R Primary". ourcampaigns.com. July 27, 2006.
  • "GA State House 027". ourcampaigns.com. November 6, 2008.
  • "GA State House 027". ourcampaigns.com. November 7, 2010.
  • Galloway, Jim. "The HOPE scholarship and a Democratic policy of engagement". Atlanta Journal-Constitution. February 26, 2011.
  • Collins, Doug; Ralston, David; Jones, Jan; O'Neal, Larry Jr.; Abrams, Stacey. "HB 326/CFSA House Bill 326 (COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE) (AM)". votesmart.org. (PDF)
  • Lohr, Katy. "Georgia's HOPE Scholarship Dwindles Amid Cutbacks". npr.org. April 5, 2011.
  • "HB 797 – Establishes a State Charter School Commission – Key Vote". votesmart.org. March 13, 2013.
  • Rich, Motoko. "Georgia's Voters Will Decide on Future of Charter Schools". The New York Times. November 5, 2012.
  • "Americans for Prosperity Applauds U.S. House Candidate Doug Collins". americansforprosperity.org. (PDF) May 30, 2012.
  • Blake, Aaron. "Coffman, Gardner join Republicans against President Trump's travel ban; here's where the rest stand". The Denver Post. January 29, 2017.
  • Galloway, Jim. "Martha Zoller takes a temp job with Nathan Deal". Atlanta Journal-Constitution. October 11, 2012.
  • "Our Campaigns – GA District 09 – R Runoff Race – August 21, 2012". ourcampaigns.com.
  • Stephens, David. "Doug Collins Wins Republican Run-Off for Georgia's 9th Congressional District". 103.5 WSGC.
  • "Our Campaigns – GA District 09 Race – Nov 06, 2012". ourcampaigns.com.
  • Bynum, Ross. "Doug Collins defeats opponent in Georgia race for U.S. House seat". The Independent Mail (Anderson, SC).
  • Galarza, Carlos. "Teacher announces Democratic run for 9th District congressional race". The Gainesville Times. April 10, 2017.
  • "Georgia Election Results". The Washington Post. November 7, 2018.
  • "Members". U.S. – Japan Caucus.
  • Arkin, James. "Collins launches Georgia Senate bid, setting up GOP clash". Politico. January 29, 2020.
  • Booker, Brakkton. "Against Trump's Wishes, Georgia Gov. Appoints Kelly Loeffler To Fill Senate Seat". NPR. December 4, 2019.
  • Arkin, James; Zanona, Melanie. "GOP establishment prepares to battle Doug Collins". Politico. January 28, 2020.
  • Williams, Dave. "Georgia House bill would eliminate 'jungle primary' for Sen. Loeffler". The Augusta Chronicle. January 27, 2020.
  • Judd, Alan. "Georgia's recount integrity faces attack". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
  • "Georgia's secretary of state says fellow Republicans are pressuring him to find ways to exclude legal ballots". The Washington Post. November 16, 2020.
  • Collins, Doug [@CollinsforGA]. "I just called @kloeffler and congratulated her on making the runoff. She has my support and endorsement". (Tweet) – via Twitter. November 4, 2020.
  • "Trump picks ex-congressman Doug Collins for veterans affairs secretary". Reuters. November 14, 2024.
  • "What They Are Saying: Veterans Groups Applaud Nomination of Congressman Doug Collins to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs". January 24, 2025.
  • Leonard, Ben. "Democrats press VA secretary nominee on abortion, Project 2025". Politico. January 21, 2025.
  • Leonard, Ben. "Trump's VA pick sails through committee". Politico. January 23, 2025.
  • Brown, Matt. "Doug Collins confirmed as veterans affairs secretary as Trump Cabinet takes shape". Associated Press. February 4, 2025.
  • @SecVetAffairs. "Ready to get to work for America's Veterans. Thank you to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas for swearing me in this morning. A tremendous honor!". (Tweet). February 5, 2025.
  • "1.5 Cabinet Members Not in Attendance (Designated Survivor) from 1984, and Frequency by Department | the American Presidency Project".
  • Fortinsky, Sarah. "Trump administration plans to cut at least 70000 jobs from VA". The Hill. March 5, 2025.
  • Albert, Victoria; Thomas, Ken; Ellis, Lindsay. "Veterans Affairs Plans to Cut 70,000 Employees". Wall Street Journal. March 5, 2025.
  • Cameron, Chris; Nehamas, Nicholas. "Veterans Affairs Department Plans to Eliminate More Than 80,000 Workers". New York Times. March 5, 2025.
  • Santucci, Jeanine. "'Unforgivable': Rep. Doug Collins slammed for tweet about Ruth Bader Ginsburg's abortion stance after her death". USA Today. September 19, 2020.
  • Silavent, Joshua. "ACA health insurance enrollment exceeds forecasts in nation, state". Gainesville Times.
  • "Trump who? Senate GOP candidates in tight races avoid any mention of the president in campaign ads". The Washington Post. 2020.
  • "Democrats unveil resolution setting scope of public phase of impeachment inquiry of Trump, empowering Schiff to make key decisions". The Washington Post. October 29, 2019.
  • Holland, Jonathan Landay, Steve. "Trump's acting intelligence chief Grenell says won't be tapped for permanent post". Reuters. February 21, 2020.
  • Dzhanova, Yelena. "Doug Collins announced Trump ally Roger Stone will campaign for him in Georgia". Business Insider Australia. November 1, 2020.
  • Axelrod, Tal. "Roger Stone to campaign for Doug Collins in Georgia on Monday". TheHill. October 31, 2020.
  • Murphy, Patricia. "Loeffler, Collins battle for GOP votes as time runs out". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. October 30, 2020.
  • Blood, Michael R.; Riccardi, Nicholas. "Biden officially secures enough electors to become president". Associated Press News. December 5, 2020.
  • Liptak, Adam. "Supreme Court Rejects Texas Suit Seeking to Subvert Election". The New York Times. December 11, 2020.
  • "Order in Pending Case". Supreme Court of the United States. December 11, 2020. (PDF)
  • Diaz, Daniella. "Brief from 126 Republicans supporting Texas lawsuit in Supreme Court". CNN. December 10, 2020.
  • Almukhtar, Sarah. "How Each House Member Voted on the Tax Bill". The New York Times. December 19, 2017.
  • "Tax reform bill all but a done deal". Gainesville Times. Associated Press.
  • jtharpe54. "Georgia GOP Congressman Doug Collins disappointed in gay marriage ruling". ajc.
  • "House Debate on the Equality Act". C-SPAN. May 17, 2019.
  • "Final Vote Results for Roll Call 217". Clerk.house.gov. May 17, 2019.
  • Kropf, Schuyler. "Push to oust Navy chaplain under fire 35 U.S. House members send letter". Post and Courier. March 30, 2015.
  • Cole, Devan. "Top House Judiciary Republican makes unfounded claim that Democrats are 'in love with terrorists'". CNN. January 9, 2020.
  • GOP Congressman Says Democrats Are in 'Love With Terrorists'. New York Intelligencer. Jan 8, 2020.
  • 'I left parts of my body behind fighting terrorists in Iraq': Sen. Tammy Duckworth responds to GOP congressman's claim that Democrats are 'in love with terrorists'. Business Insider. Jan 9, 2020.
  • Top Republican Lawmaker Apologizes for 'Democrats Love Terrorists' Remarks but on Fox News He Defends His Claim. The New Civil Rights Movement. Jan 10, 2020.
  • Joyner, Bo. "A Passion to Serve: U.S. congressman/Reserve chaplain finds satisfaction in giving back". Air Force Reserve Command. March 4, 2015.
  • McDonald, Staff Sgt. Jaclyn. "For God and Country". Dobbins Air Reserve Base. September 9, 2013.
  • Project Vote Smart. "Representative Douglas 'Doug' A. Collins's Biography". votesmart.org. March 13, 2013.
  • Reiner, Anne. "Southern Baptist contingent in Congress grows". The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. November 12, 2012.
  • Blackwood, Harris. "New kids on the block Every day is a learning process, but Hall's new legislators are settling into their positions". gainesvilletimes.com. February 18, 2007.
  • Religious affiliation of members of 115th Congress. (PDF) Report. Pew Research Center. January 3, 2017.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Doug Collins (politician) Wikipedia page

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