Benjamin Krause is an investigative journalist, attorney and advocate who doesn’t just report on VA failure—he forces accountability. His work has triggered multiple VA OIG investigations, influenced federal legislation, and exposed systemic scandals that put veteran lives and livelihoods at risk.

🚨 Investigative Catalyst: Forcing Federal Accountability

Benjamin is a primary resource for investigative journalists, having served as a consultant and expert on stories that led to nationwide VA reform.

  • The TBI Misdiagnosis Scandal (VA OIG Investigation Triggered) Benjamin’s investigation into the VA’s use of unqualified medical examiners to evaluate Traumatic Brain Injuries led to a nationwide VA OIG investigation and the re-evaluation of thousands of veteran claims.
  • The “Bad Address” Mail Scandal Benjamin exposed how administrative failures in the VA’s mailing systems led to veterans missing critical benefits, in some cases pushing families toward homelessness.
  • Wrongful ER Bill Denials By uncovering the “Imprudent Layperson” loophole, Benjamin revealed how the VA was systematically denying emergency room claims, causing financial ruin for veterans across the country.

🏛️ Legislative & Policy Influence

From Washington D.C. to State Capitols, Benjamin provides the legal framework for veterans’ rights.

  • Congressional Testimony & Research: Benjamin provides formal testimony to the U.S. House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and is a cited authority in Congressional Research Service (CRS) reports.
  • Defending the Right to Counsel (Minnesota State Advocacy): As a leader in state-level legislative battles (HF 1855 & SF 1894), Benjamin has successfully challenged “anti-fraud” bills that threatened to strip veterans of their constitutional right to choose accredited legal help.
  • The Veterans Choice Critique: An early and vocal critic of the “Choice” program’s restrictive implementation, Benjamin exposed the hypocrisy of a system that promised care but delivered red tape.

📺 National Broadcast & Print Commentary

From live television interviews to national op-eds, Benjamin breaks down complex VA regulations into compelling, human-centered narratives.

  • Stars & Stripes: The Purple Heart Story An in-depth look at the struggles veterans face when seeking the recognition and benefits earned through combat injuries.
  • CBS Evening News with Katie Couric Featured as a primary expert on the systemic backlog and neglect within the VA, Benjamin’s advocacy reached millions of viewers nationwide.
  • The Hill: Healthcare & Policy Op-Ed Benjamin pens sharp, analytical pieces on the intersection of VA research and foreign special interests, challenging the status quo in veteran care.
  • Newsweek: Investigating the Opioid Crisis Benjamin’s expertise was central to exposing how VA prescribing practices contributed to the national opioid epidemic.

🎓 Legal Scholarship & Investigative Authorship

Benjamin’s work is recognized by the legal and academic communities for its rigor and depth.

  • Widener Law Review His analysis of the “Pro-Claimant Paradox” has been cited by legal scholars examining the barriers veterans face in the adjudication process.
  • “Mental Health, Inc.” Benjamin’s investigative work on corruption and vulnerability within the mental health sector serves as a resource for those fighting systemic abuse.

📰 Local Impact & Community Advocacy

A champion for “the little guy,” Benjamin’s work in his home state of Minnesota has set precedents for veterans nationwide.

🏆 Recognition & Leadership

GI Jobs: Minnesota Vetrepreneur of the Year & National Finalist
Recognition for building sustainable, mission-driven platforms that empower the veteran community at both the state and national level.
Read the October 2025 Feature

Board of Veterans’ Appeals: Invited Panelist (2016)
Selected to serve on a panel addressing the impact of agency decision-making on veterans’ appeals and procedural outcomes within the VA adjudication system.

Veteran Readiness and Employment Service (Department of Veterans Affairs): Invited Panelist & Certificate of Appreciation (2017)
Recognition for panel participation and subject-matter contribution at the VA VR&E Officer’s Technical Training Conference.

Super Lawyers: Rising Stars (2018–2023)
Recognition of professional excellence in veterans law and appellate advocacy, based on peer nomination and independent research.
Selected for six consecutive years.

Minnesota Humanities Center: Veterans Voices Award (2013)
Recognition as one of Minnesota’s top veterans advocates for advancing public understanding of veterans’ experiences through education and civic engagement.

The Moth: Storytelling Training Fellow (2016)
Selected for advanced narrative and public-speaking training focused on authentic, first-person storytelling.

🎙️ Book Benjamin Krause for Your Next Story

Benjamin is available for expert commentary and investigative consulting on:

  • VA Investigative Oversight & OIG Inquiries
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Medical Misdiagnosis
  • ER Benefit Litigation & Administrative Failures
  • Veterans’ Right to Legal Counsel & State/Federal Policy

Contact for Media Inquiries: For interviews, expert commentary, or speaking engagements, please reach out to our media relations team: [email protected].