Senate confirms Robert Wilkie as next VA secretary, but with opposition

Senators overwhelmingly approved Robert Wilkie as the next Veterans Affairs secretary on Monday, but the move came with political dissent for the first time in the department’s 30-year history.

Trump’s first pick to replace Shulkin, former White House physician Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson, withdrew his name from consideration in April after allegations emerged about unprofessional behavior and medication mismanagement in his role as the administration’s top doctor.

Wilkie, 55, has been serving since last fall as the Defense Department’s under secretary for personnel and readiness. He also served as acting VA secretary for two months following the firing of Shulkin from the lead department job in March.

He has received generally positive reviews from veterans groups in recent months as a stabilizing force for a department that has seen significant turmoil since the start of 2018.

In a statement, American Legion National Commander Denise Rohan praised the move and said her staff is focused on working with the new secretary “to ensure America’s veterans receive the healthcare, education, and other benefits they have earned.”

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