Trump Sets Stage For Ronny Jackson To Drop Out: ‘If I Were Him, I Wouldn’t Do It’
In the wake of reports that President Donald Trump’s nominee to be VA secretary, White House physician Ronny Jackson, is facing allegations that he oversaw a hostile work environment, overprescribed medication and drank too much on the job, the president said he stood by Jackson. But also gave Jackson an out to step aside.
During a joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, the president was asked about the claims against Jackson and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs postponement of a hearing to consider Jackson’s nomination as the committee investigates the allegations.
“If I were him, I wouldn’t do it,” Trump declared. “What does he need it for? To be abused by a bunch of politicians that aren’t thinking nicely about our country? I don’t think he should do it but I would stand behind him.”
After complaining that Democrats were obstructionists while calling Jackson a “high-quality person,” the president said he “will always stand behind him.” Trump also addressed concerns that Jackson isn’t qualified to run the VA, describing Jackson as a “leader and a good man.”
Amazingly, Trump also said “I’s love to be him” when referring to Jackson potentially dropping out. I think we can see where the president’s mindset is right now.
Meanwhile, Jackson has told reporters that he wants to move forward with the confirmation process, adding that the president won’t ask him to withdraw.
Ronny Jackson told reporters that he wants to move forward with his hearing, and Trump won’t ask him to withdraw. So that means that the controversy over his nomination will continue to linger as senators investigate the matter, delaying hearing til May at earliest
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) April 24, 2018
No. But the president will certainly hint that you should, Ronny.
Watch Trump’s response below:
Trump says he'd advise Jackson to not take job he's nominated him for.
"If I were him, I wouldn't do it. What does he need it for? To be abused by a bunch of politicians that aren't thinking nicely about our country? I don't think he should do it but I would stand behind him." pic.twitter.com/ccaeaHNxbT
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 24, 2018
