Mike Pence's doctor warned the White House about Ronny Jackson last fall

Donald Trump shakes hands with Ronny Jackson.
(Image credit: Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images)

In September, Vice President Mike Pence's wife, Karen Pence, was rushed to Walter Reed hospital from Camp David, and White House physician Ronny Jackson inappropriately intervened in such a way that he potentially violated federal privacy laws, Pence's physician told White House officials, according to three memos shared with CNN. Pence's doctor said an irate Jackson confronted him after he had raised his concerns with White House officials, including White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, and Jackson's intimidation and unprofessional behavior made him so "uncomfortable" he considered resigning to avoid having to work with him.

Jackson withdrew his name from consideration to be President Trump's veterans affairs secretary after the Senate unearthed allegations that he had created a hostile work environment, drank on the job, and freely dispensed prescription drugs — all of which Jackson denies. Jackson will stay on staff at the White House medical unit but no longer be Trump's physician.

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Peter Weber, The Week US

Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.