Cantor continues criticism of Obama's response to VA scandal as Congress looks to expand Shinseki's power

WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- Within hours of President Obama's remarks regarding the ongoing Veterans Affairs scandal, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor announced plans to grant Secretary Eric Shinseki the power to fire those deemed responsible.

In a press release, Cantor defied Obama's request for politicians not to assign partisan language to potential solutions, saying, "President Obama is known for talking about accountability without ever holding anyone accountable. While the President took little action this morning, the House will act today."

"The House has been investigating the abuses at the VA for well over a year now. Today, the House will pass a bill that gives Secretary Shinseki the authority to terminate the employment of incompetent senior leaders at the VA. The Senate should pass it swiftly so President Obama and Secretary Shinseki can start utilizing that authority. Time is of the essence, for the sake of our veterans who deserve better. Senior leaders at the VA must be held accountable, and the White House must continue to answer for the treatment of our veterans."

The remarks and new legislation come a day after Cantor accused President Obama of not caring about veterans.