Sen. Murray selected chair of Veterans Affairs panel

Sen. Patty Murray was named chairwoman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on Thursday, and says she hopes to keep the Obama administration focused on the medical care and benefits due those who have served in the military.

"I am one who will hold any president accountable — regardless of political party — accountable for making sure that veterans get the care they need," said Murray, a Washington state Democrat.

Murray was voted chairwoman by Democrats on the committee. She replaces Sen. Daniel Akaka, an 86-year-old Democrat from Hawaii who leaves to chair the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.