WASHINGTON — Ronny L. Jackson, President Donald Trump’s embattled nominee to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, withdrew from consideration Thursday amid mushrooming allegations of professional misconduct that raised questions about the White House vetting process. The claims include that Jackson, the White House physician, had wrecked a government vehicle after getting drunk at a Secret Service going-away party. His prior nominees for labor secretary, Army secretary and Navy secretary all withdrew last year after questions arose during their vetting process. The president is said to have been captivated by his doctor’s appearance in the White House briefing room, where, following Trump’s physical, Jackson extolled Trump’s fitness and cognitive acuity. “We now face the prospect of a stunning eighth nominee for VA Secretary since 9/11.

Source: National Post April 26, 2018 12:56 UTC