What Sen. Patty Murray has to say about Trump’s VA pick withdrawing
Apr 26, 2018, 6:41 AM
Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson, left, and Sen. Patty Murray, right. (Associated Press via Canva)
(Associated Press via Canva)
Senator Patty Murray had more than a few choice words for the Trump administration after White House doctor Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson withdrew from consideration as Veterans Affairs secretary.
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On Twitter, Sen. Murray (D-Washington) released the following statement:
“The lack of scrutiny that President Trump gave his most recent VA Secretary nominee is an insult to the millions of veterans who deserve a serious and strong leader who is ready on day one to bring this agency up to what is expected by all Americans.
“The position of VA Secretary has never been, nor should ever be, an afterthought. I hope President Trump takes the lessons of this failed nominee to heart & recommends someone with the integrity, leadership, management experience, and dedication to serve our veterans.”
She also targeted Republicans.
“This should be a lesson to Republican leaders and those trying to cut corners and jam nominees through the Senate—there is a reason that we want to take the time to scrutinize nominees and make sure they are ready and able to do the job.”
Jackson withdrew from consideration as Veterans Affairs secretary Thursday. He said “false allegations” against him became a distraction.
Those allegations he’s referring to include a series of accusations about workplace conduct. According to the Associated Press, “Jackson exhibited a pattern of recklessly prescribing drugs and drunken behavior.”
The White House released reports from President Trump and former President Obama that praised the doctor’s leadership and care, recommending him for a promotion.
The White House is seeking a replacement for its veterans affairs secretary after David Shulkin’s departure earlier this year.
