Trump replaces embattled veteran affairs chief with White House physician as cabinet shake-up continues
CABINET SHAKE-UP CONTINUES
Besides Jackson's nomination, Trump also said that he appreciates the work of Shulkin, including his effort to help pass the VA Accountability Act.
"He has been a great supporter of veterans across the country and I am grateful for his service," the president said of Shulkin, who has come under scrutiny after a report from VA's inspector general concluded his European trip last July amounts to a "misuse of VA resources."
The report found that Shulkin, during his 11-day trip to England and Denmark, improperly accepted tickets to the Wimbledon tennis tournament, and his chief of staff altered an official email to secure the payment for airfare for Shulkin's wife.
Rumors had built up around Shulkin's departure as the White House reportedly began viewing him as a distraction to the administration's VA agenda and Trump is reported to fire him this week.
Shulkin is the second member of Trump's Cabinet to be ousted this month, following Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.
Over the last two months, a handful of senior White House officials have either resigned or been fired, fueling concerns over the West Wing's stability.