Sarah Sanders Goes to Bat for Ronny Jackson: ‘More Vetted Than Most Nominees’

So often during President Donald Trump‘s administration when one of his cabinet officials or nominees has been under siege, Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders has given them the kiss of death by saying something like “[the administration has] no immediate personnel changes at this time.” But despite the allegations swirling around Dr. Ronny Jackson — Trump’s pick for VA Secretary — Sanders offered something much more substantial than the vague, ominous no-comment she’s previously given in similar circumstances.

During Wednesday’s press briefing, Sanders defended Jackson’s record to reporters — despite accusations that Jackson overprescribed medications, was intoxicated at work, and harassed staffers.

“Dr. Jackson’s record as a White House physician has been impeccable,” Sanders said. “In fact, because Dr. Jackson has worked within arms reach of three presidents, he has received more vetting than most nominees.”

She added:

Given his unique position of trust and responsibility, Dr. Jackson’s background and character were evaluated during three different administrations. Dr. Jackson has had at least four independent background investigations conducted during this time at the White House, including an FBI investigation conducted as part of the standard nomination vetting process. During each of those investigations, Dr. Jackson received unanimous praise from dozens of witnesses and the investigations revealed no areas of concern. Dr. Jackson has received glowing evaluations from his superiors including several from President [Barack] Obama, which said ‘such as Dr. Jackson should continue to promote ahead of his peers, already at a level of performance and responsibility that exceeds his current rank.’

John Roberts of Fox News followed up, but Sanders stood behind the embattled nominee.

“I think that [statement] makes it pretty clear in terms of very thorough investigation and vetting process has taken place,” Sanders said. “None of those [allegations] had come up. We’re continuing to look at anything beyond that.

Watch above, via CNN.

[featured image via screengrab]

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