WASHINGTON — The Navy has quietly restored Rep. Ronny Jackson’s retired rank of rear admiral, overturning a 2022 demotion linked to allegations of misconduct during his years as White House physician under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.
Jackson, now a Republican congressman from Texas, celebrated the reversal by posting the Navy Secretary’s letter on social media Wednesday, alongside a jab at President Biden: “I was, and still am, a retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral, and Joe Biden is a retired old FOOL.”
The reinstatement letter, dated June 13 and signed by Navy Secretary John Phelan, followed a review of “all applicable reports and references.” A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed the decision, praising Jackson’s “decades of distinguished naval service” and his role on the U.S. Naval Academy’s Board of Visitors.
A reversal of fortune
Jackson’s rank had been stripped in 2022 after a scathing Pentagon inspector general report accused him of:
- Making “sexual and denigrating” comments about a female subordinate.
- Drinking alcohol on official presidential travel, in violation of policy.
- Taking prescription-strength sleeping medication that alarmed colleagues.
Jackson denied the claims, calling them a “political hit job.”
Despite the controversy, his loyalty to Trump earned him national prominence. As White House physician, Jackson famously declared Trump had “incredibly good genes” and could live “to be 200 years old” if he ate healthier. Trump later nominated him for Veterans Affairs secretary, though Jackson withdrew amid scrutiny. He went on to serve as Trump’s chief medical adviser before winning a congressional seat in 2020.
Pentagon under pressure
The decision to reinstate Jackson adds to a pattern critics say shows the Pentagon rewarding Trump allies while sidelining perceived opponents.
Just last week, officials announced that Ashli Babbitt, the Air Force veteran fatally shot during the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, would receive full military funeral honors. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has floated reinstating service members who were discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccines.
By contrast, those seen as crossing Trump have faced consequences. Two weeks ago, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse was fired after overseeing intelligence assessments about Iranian nuclear site damage that reportedly angered the president.
A political flashpoint
Jackson’s reinstatement, while largely symbolic, cements his stature as both a Trump loyalist and a lightning rod in Congress. Supporters hail his service record and perseverance, while critics see the move as politicizing military recognition.
Either way, the decision underscores how battles over loyalty and accountability continue to ripple through America’s armed forces — with Trump allies like Jackson often landing on their feet.
