The White House is playing offense in its defense of President Donald Trump's nominee to run the Department of Veterans Affairs, releasing handwritten notes by the previous president as proof of Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson's worthiness.

The White House is playing defense on Ronny Jackson. The press office just blasted out former President Obama’s handwritten notes praising Jackson in his official fitness reports. pic.twitter.com/dREnD8Plzg — Andrew Desiderio (@desiderioDC) April 24, 2018

Trump met with Jackson on Tuesday and decided to back his nominee, who had his confirmation process put on hold in light of accusations that he drank on overseas trips, improperly dispensed sleeping pills - earning him the moniker "Candy Man" - and ran a toxic work environment.

Who better to rebut and tamp down those accusations than former President Barack Obama:

"Ronny's positive impact cannot be overstated," Obama wrote in a performance review. "He is a tremendous asset to the entire White House team. Already at a level of performance and responsibility that far exceeds his current rank, promote to Rear Admiral now."

The White House on Tuesday also said Jackson's nomination would "certainly not be railroaded by a bitter ex-colleague."

Earlier Tuesday, Trump said he wouldn't continue with his candidacy to run the VA if he were in Jackson's shoes.

"The fact is, I wouldn't do it. What does he need it for? To be abused by a bunch of politicians that aren't thinking nicely about our country? I don't think he should do it, but I would stand behind him. Totally his decision."