Jackson's Military Resume Challenges GOP Seniority for Armed Services Committee

0:00It's April 23rd, I'm Cory with the story, and this is U.S. News, today. Your AI-powered national briefing. Rep Ronnie Jackson from Texas is eyeing a bid to become the top Republican on the House Armed Services Committee after the midterms. The three-term congressmen would go up against reps. Rob Whitman from Virginia and Trent Kelly from Mississippi. Jackson currently chairs the Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee. He made a clear his choice, won't hinge on things like Virginia, redrawing districts that might threaten Whitman's seat. Current chair Mike Rogers from Alabama is hitting his term limit, but could seek a waiver to stay on. Whitman and Kelly, both subcommittee chairs, too, plan to jump in the race. Seniority favors Whitman and Kelly, but Jackson says that's not how it works in the House or GOP. He pushes for the best fit over years served, pointing to his 25 years as a Navy officer. A real-world experience he argues puts him in the running strong. Jackson served as White House physician and Navy officer before Congress.

1:03Back in 2022, the Navy demoted him from rear admiral to captain over alleged misconduct during his White House days. He calls a political payback from the Biden team, and the Trump administration later restored his rank. This race shapes up as a battle of resumes and party loyalty, with Jackson betting his military chops will carry the day no matter the odds.