Trump takes second swing at getting Navy doctor his second star

By

Darlene Superville, The Associated Press

In this Jan. 16, 2018, file photo, White House physician Dr. Ronny Jackson speaks to reporters during the daily press briefing in the Brady press briefing room at the White House, in Washington. Jackson, President Donald Trump’s pick to lead Veterans Affairs withdrew April 26, in the wake of late-surfacing allegations about overprescribing drugs and poor leadership while serving as a top White House doctor, saying the “false allegations” against him have become a distraction. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President Donald Trump has appointed his former doctor to be his assistant and chief medical adviser.

Saturday’s announcement by the White House follows Trump’s decision to re-nominate Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson for a second star due to inaction by the previous Congress.

Jackson’s original nomination was put on hold last year after Trump nominated him to head the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

The Navy doctor withdrew following allegations of professional misconduct, which the Pentagon continues to investigate.

Jackson has denied any wrongdoing.

Jackson led the medical team for Trump’s physical exam last year and said the president was in excellent health and has “incredibly good genes.”

A White House official not authorized to publicly discuss personnel issues says Trump considers Jackson a trustworthy medical adviser and physician.

About 

Darlene Superville, The Associated Press