Federal Probe into Unauthorized Access of Vance, Walz VA Records

Published: October 2, 2024 at 3:42 PM EDT

Updated: April 22, 2026 at 5:59 PM EDT

COMMENT

Two military personnel in dress uniforms, one Marine and one Air Force, with American flags in the background.

Vice President hopefuls Vance and Walz held their only debate before the election on October 1, 2024. While there is plenty to dissect, it’s the news that led up to the big event making waves in the military community. There is now a federal investigation involving the VA healthcare records of both Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz. This is a developing story; however, there are several U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs employees who are believed to have violated the privacy of each VP nominee. Now, actions are now being taken to find out the truth.

VA Employees' Unauthorized Access to JD Vance and Tim Walz Records

“Unacceptable” is how VA spokesperson Terrence Hayes described the incident, involving at least a dozen employees improperly accessing medical records for JD Vance and Tim Walz. Both Vice President nominees are Veterans. The employees accessing their VA healthcare records did so without proper authorization for varying reasons. Some were simply curious as the election looms closer and closer. "We take the privacy of the Veterans we serve very seriously and have strict policies in place to protect their records. Any attempt to improperly access Veteran records by VA personnel is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," said VA spokesperson Terrence Hayes, who also mentioned that the proper authorities have been notified. The investigation into the improper access is producing evidence. Some was presented to federal prosecutors by the VA's inspector general office. It’s in review as of this writing.

Curiosity About Veteran VPs

The 2024 election has had more drama than TNT in the 2000s, which is fueling curiosity, as evidenced by VA employees accessing the healthcare records of JD Vance and Tim Walz. However, one unique aspect of this election is that for the first time in decades, the United States has two individuals running for Vice President who are both Veterans. JD Vance is a Veteran of the Marine Corps, while Tim Walz served in the National Guard. Both have been outspoken about their use of VA healthcare, a noted and deserved benefit within the Veteran community. With this in mind, it seems that curiosity may be killing the cat yet again because while it should be common sense to leave private healthcare records, well, private, we’re all human, and sometimes, our ideas get the best of us. While the leak of VA healthcare records for Vance and Walz wasn’t directly mentioned by VA Secretary Denis McDonough, it’s worth noting that he recently reminded employees that they were to protect the privacy of Veterans as part of their duties. Related read:Did Tim Walz Serve in the Military?

Implications of VA Records Leak for JD Vance and Tim Walz

It may be understandable to have a lapse in judgment but that doesn’t mean there won’t be consequences. Considering the healthcare records in question are protected by the 1996 Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, better known as HIPPA, expect to see serious repercussions. Not only can VA employees found responsible lose their jobs, but there are civil penalties to worry about. There is even the possibility of criminal prosecution. Overall, a fine as high as $50,000 and going to prison for a year aren’t out of the question.