Former White House physician Ronny Jackson wins Texas runoff

Ronny Jackson, President Trump’s former White House physician, won the GOP runoff in Texas’ 13th District, leaving him well placed to be elected to Congress in November in the reliably red district.

Jackson led with 56 percent of the vote with 87 percent of precincts reporting, according to The Associated Press. He defeated Josh Winegarner, a lobbyist, in the race to replace Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Texas), who’s retiring after 13 terms.

Trump tweeted Tuesday night to congratulate the former White House official and spoke with him on the phone. The president endorsed Jackson, a former Navy officer, in February ahead of a crowded primary on March 3 where no single candidate won a majority.

Congratulations to @RonnyJackson4TX on a big win against a tough and really good opponent. Ronny will be a fantastic Congressman – Will represent the wonderful people of the Great State of Texas, and the USA, very well. Proud of you Ronny!!!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 15, 2020

Jane and I just got off the phone with @realDonaldTrump! It’s official! I am honored to be the Republican nominee for #TX13! I promise I will make you proud! pic.twitter.com/Hr7ZJPfwqu

— Ronny Jackson (@RonnyJackson4TX) July 15, 2020

Jackson will face off against Democrat Gus Trujillo, who prevailed in his party’s runoff on Tuesday.

Trump nominated Jackson last year to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, but he withdrew from consideration amid allegations of professional misconduct, including drinking on the job and overprescribing medication.

Jackson also reportedly hid cauliflower in the president’s mashed potatoes to improve his diet.