In a surprising turn of events, the Trump administration has reinstated the military rank of Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, a retired Navy doctor, to rear admiral despite past allegations of misconduct.
According to Military.com, this decision, announced by Jackson on social media, reverses a 2022 demotion prompted by a Pentagon inspector general report that found he mistreated subordinates and engaged in inappropriate behavior during his naval career.
Jackson’s career in the Navy spanned years of service, including a significant role as a White House doctor under multiple presidents. His prominence grew during President Donald Trump’s first term, particularly after a 2018 press conference where he lauded Trump’s health.
Trump's Praise Sparks National Attention
During that 2018 event, Jackson made headlines with glowing remarks about Trump, even suggesting the president had exceptional vitality. This led to Trump nominating Jackson to head the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, the nomination was soon withdrawn amid serious accusations.
Allegations emerged that Jackson had consumed alcohol on the job, overprescribed medications, and fostered a toxic work environment. These claims cast a shadow over his reputation as a naval officer and doctor.
A 2021 Pentagon inspector general report substantiated many of these accusations against Jackson. The report detailed how he belittled and bullied subordinates, made inappropriate comments about a female colleague, and drank while providing medical care during official trips under former President Barack Obama.
Misconduct Allegations Lead to Rank Reduction
As a result of the findings, Jackson was demoted to captain in 2022, three years after retiring from the Navy. This reduction, first reported by The Washington Post last year, had a notable financial impact. The difference in retirement pay between a captain and a rear admiral amounted to over $10,000 annually. Jackson publicly criticized the investigation, calling it a politically motivated attack in 2021. He maintained his innocence and fought to reclaim his former rank.
Meanwhile, legislative efforts emerged to support Jackson’s cause. Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., proposed an amendment to this year’s defense policy bill to restore Jackson’s rank and provide back pay. However, the amendment was later withdrawn, as noted on the House Rules Committee website.
Administration's Decision Reverses Past Penalty
The Trump administration’s decision to restore Jackson’s rank came via a letter from Navy Secretary John Phelan on June 13. In the letter, Phelan commended Jackson’s dedication and leadership in the Navy and Marine Corps.
Jackson shared the news on social media Wednesday afternoon, just hours after Military.com reached out to his office for comment on related legislation. The Navy confirmed the rank restoration to The Associated Press, though it did not immediately respond to Military.com’s inquiries.
In his social media post on platform X, Jackson expressed relief and vindication. “I was, and still am, a retired U.S. Navy rear admiral, and Joe Biden is a retired old FOOL,” he wrote. He further claimed the demotion was a result of politically driven attacks by the Biden administration.
Political Allies Celebrate Rank Restoration
Support for Jackson’s reinstatement also came from allies like Rep. Issa’s office. Jonathan Wilcox, Issa’s spokesperson, described Jackson as a patriot and exemplary leader in a statement to Military.com. Wilcox emphasized that the demotion was an unjust abuse of power.
The restoration of Jackson’s rank aligns with other recent actions by the Trump administration, including honoring individuals tied to controversial events. Examples include offering military funeral honors to Ashli Babbitt, killed during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack, and appointing former military officers to key roles after past disputes.
This decision marks a significant chapter in Jackson’s post-Navy career, now as a Texas congressman. It closes a yearslong saga of allegations, investigations, and demotion, restoring not just his title but also the associated financial benefits. The move has sparked discussions about military accountability and political influence in such decisions.
