the Supreme Court ruled 7-2
that courts must defer
to the VA’s findings unless there’s
a clear error, weakening the benefit-of-the-doubt
rule that once helped veterans win close cases.
Veterans Joshua Bufkin and Norman
Thornton were denied PTSD
claims despite presenting nearly balanced evidence.
Justices Jackson and Gorsuch dissented,
warning the decision undermines fairness.
Advocates fear this will lead to more
denied claims and are calling
for Congress to reinforce protections.
The ruling marks a major shift,
making it tougher for veterans
to secure the benefits they’ve earned.
