White House says Obama’s nominee for Veterans Dept health care post withdraws
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s choice to be the top health official at the embattled Veterans Affairs Department has withdrawn his nomination.
The news comes amid a firestorm over long patient waits at military veterans’ medical facilities and covering up delays, a headache for Democrats ahead of November congressional elections.
Jeffrey Murawsky says he fears trying to win his required Senate confirmation to be the department’s undersecretary for health care could spark a prolonged political battle. The VA health network’s Chicago-based regional director was nominated after his predecessor resigned under pressure.
The White House said Obama accepted Murawsky’s withdrawal and will move quickly to find a replacement.
Acting VA Secretary Sloan Gibson took over Friday after Secretary Eric Shinseki resigned.
A federal investigation found broad problems throughout the veterans’ health care system.
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